botulinum toxin

/ ˌbɒtjʊˈlaɪnəm /

noun

1. a pharmaceutical formulation of botulin used in minute doses to treat various forms of muscle spasm and for the cosmetic removal of wrinkles See Botox

botulinum toxin

/ bŏch′ə-lī′nəm /

1. Any of several enzymes produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum that are extremely potent neurotoxins. Botulinum toxin interferes with the ability of neurons to release acetylcholine at nerve-muscle junctures, thereby inducing the paralysis of botulism. Botulinum toxin is resistant to enzymatic digestion in the body and is used as an antispasmodic and a treatment for wrinkles by paralyzing facial muscles.
2. Also called botulin

Example Sentences

Botox, or botulinum toxin, is used cosmetically to temporarily smooth fine lines on the face.

From Los Angeles Times

Most of the people said they got injections of botulinum toxin for cosmetic reasons.

From Seattle Times

Foodborne botulism is a rare illness from eating foods contaminated with botulinum toxin and can cause paralysis, breathing difficulty and sometimes death.

From Seattle Times

Importation of botulinum toxin into the U.S. is restricted and requires proper documentation from the Food and Drug Administration.

From Washington Times

NSW's health ministry said initial investigations have found the botulinum toxin, which can cause botulism, in a sample of Inside Out's product.

From BBC