Toxina botulínica e seu destino no organismo humano: uma análise dos processos de absorção, metabolismo e excreção
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36557/2674-8169.2025v7n11p1102-1112Keywords:
Toxina botulínica; Farmacocinética; Absorção; Distribuição; Metabolismo; Excreção.Abstract
Botulinum toxin (BT) is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, with type A being the most clinically used due to its high potency and efficacy. Its therapeutic and aesthetic use is based on the inhibition of acetylcholine release at nerve terminals, promoting temporary and reversible muscle relaxation. Despite its widespread clinical use, the pharmacokinetic aspects of the toxin, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, remain poorly understood. This study aims to review the scientific literature on the biological fate of botulinum toxin in the human body, highlighting the mechanisms involved in its absorption, metabolism, and elimination. This is a narrative literature review with a qualitative approach, conducted in PubMed, SciELO, and Google Scholar databases using Portuguese and English descriptors related to the pharmacokinetics of botulinum toxin. Results indicate that type A toxin exhibits slow local diffusion, protease-mediated metabolism, and predominantly urinary excretion. However, the literature still lacks robust human studies that fully elucidate its biodistribution and biotransformation. It is concluded that the limited understanding of these processes restricts knowledge about the toxin’s safety and efficacy, reinforcing the need for further clinical research.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Manuella Tremea Martins, Paula Eduarda Chaves, Milena da Silva Lorencete
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