Treating Depression with Botulinum Toxin: A Pooled Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

M. Magid, E. Finzi, T. H.C. Kruger, H. T. Robertson, B. H. Keeling, S. Jung, J. S. Reichenberg, N. E. Rosenthal, M. A. Wollmer*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

51 Scopus citations

Abstract

Introduction: Botulinum toxin A (BTA) injection into the glabellar region is currently being studied as a treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD). Here we explore efficacy data of this novel approach in a pooled analysis. Methods: A literature search revealed 3 RCTs on this topic. Individual patient data and clinical end points shared by these 3 trials were pooled and analyzed as one study (n=134) using multiple regression models with random effects. Results: In the pooled sample, the BTA (n=59) and the placebo group (n=75) did not differ in the baseline variables. Efficacy outcomes revealed BTA superiority over placebo: Improvement in the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale or Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale 6 weeks after baseline was 45.7% for BTA vs. 14.6% for placebo (p<0.0001), corresponding to a BTA response rate of 54.2% (vs. 10.7%) and a BTA remission rate of 30.5% (vs. 6.7%). Discussion: Equalling the status of a meta-analysis, this study increases evidence that a single treatment of BTA into the glabellar region can reduce symptoms of MDD. Further studies are needed to better understand how BTA exerts its mood-lifting effect.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)205-210
Number of pages6
JournalPharmacopsychiatry
Volume48
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - 7 Aug 2015
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • antidepressant
  • botulinum neurotoxin A
  • meta-analysis
  • relaxation

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