botulinum toxin

noun

: a neurotoxin formed by botulinum that causes botulism and that is injected in a purified form for therapeutic and cosmetic purposes (as to treat blepharospasm and reduce wrinkles)

Examples of botulinum toxin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The botulinum toxin blocks the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for muscle contractions, leading to muscle paralysis. —Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 24 Jan. 2025

Turns out the idea does have some scientific merit: A study on the interaction between Botox and dietary zinc concluded that taking zinc can prolong the effect of treatment with botulinum toxin by an impressive 30%. —Cordula Funke, Vogue, 23 Jan. 2025

Botox is a brand name for botulinum toxin (specifically onabotulinumtoxinA), a protein produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. —Sara Hoffman, Pharmd, Verywell Health, 19 Dec. 2024

What Is Botox Used For? Botox is made from botulinum toxin and is used for various medical and cosmetic procedures. —Ayesha Gulzar, Verywell Health, 10 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

botulinum toxin

noun

variants also botulinus toxin

: a very powerful neurotoxin that causes botulism and is produced by the botulinum bacterium (Clostridium botulinum)

also : botulinum toxin type a

Note: Botulinum toxin acts primarily on the parasympathetic nervous system.