Botox for Depression
Several recent clinical trials have suggested that Botox injections between the eyebrows may improve depression. The theory is that decreasing muscle tension could reduce feelings of depression, instead of depression causing muscle tension. In a phase 2 double blind multicenter trial of 258 women with depression, participants were randomized to receive 30 units of Botox, 50 units of Botox, or placebo. Those who received the 30-unit injections showed significantly greater improvement in depression at three weeks and nine weeks compared to those who received placebo. However, it was not superior to placebo at the primary endpoint of the study, six weeks, and the 50-unit dosage was not superior to placebo. Both doses were well tolerated.
Botox is derived from botulinum toxin, which can relax tense muscles. It is also being explored as a treatment for migraine headaches. The manufacturer, Allergan, expects to move forward with phase 3 trials of Botox for depression.
