Letter: The Idea of Using Botulinum Toxin to Treat Anxiety Disorders

Abstract

After botulinum toxin was shown to help treat depression, I asked whether it can be therapeutic for anxiety disorders as well. In this brief letter, I go beyond pointing out my pioneering role in the suggesting of this idea and into highlighting some intuitive and counterintuitive aspects of this topic and some misconceptions. For example, if it is true that the effect of botulinum toxin occurs through the interruption of one’s ability to express, and as a result to perceive, sad emotions, then why is it not that common to report a loss of sad feelings after having botulinum toxin injected as a cosmetic in exactly the same way as applied to treat depression?