Botox is now being tested to help treat depression, with some Trump support
BOTOX is being tested for use against depression, it has emerged.
A spokeswoman for the makers Allergan, which has headquarters in Dublin, said work on targeting depression with Botox is ongoing in America. She added: ‘We are conducting the Phase 2 clinical trials, which means we still have a way to go before we can comment on the safety and efficacy of the treatment. It is not approved anywhere yet for this use.’
The firm produces the anti-wrinkle treatment at its Co. Mayo plant and has already developed a type of Botox to treat migraine.
Unlike other medication for depression, Botox is injected, meaning psychiatrists or psychiatric nurses would have to learn this skill. The target area is the glabella, the skin below the eyebrows and above the nose.
With testing taking place in the US, it’s possible President Trump’s pledge to cut regulations for new medicines could play a role. He is yet to name a new boss for the Food and Drug Administration, which checks drugs safety and has been seen as a standard setter globally.