OBJECTIVE

To update the modern data on pharmacology of botulinum toxin type A regarding systemic (botulism) and local medical effects.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The review describes the unique molecular mechanisms of pharmacological action of botulinum toxin type A: entry mechanism, absorption, distribution, binding to receptors, translocation, mediator release blocking, as well as factors affecting sensitivity to botulinum toxin at each of these stages.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

The issues of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of botulinum toxin require further research. Comprehensive understanding of various aspects of botulinum toxin pharmacology will ensure the development of new directions for therapeutic use of botulinum toxin-based drugs.

Keywords. botulinum neurotoxin, ganglioside, synaptic vesicle protein 2, fibroblast growth factor receptor 3, SNARE proteins