Botox injections can treat an overactive bladder. These injections are also used to prevent chronic migraines, treat cervical dystonia (a condition that causes severe neck and shoulder muscle contractions), and treat excessive sweating. Botox is a brand name of a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. There are other brand names for botulinum, such as Xeomin. In large amounts, this toxin can cause botulism, which you probably associate with food poisoning. Despite the fact that one of the most serious complications of botulism is paralysis, scientists have discovered a way to use it to human advantage. Small, diluted (weakened) amounts can be directly injected into specific muscles, causing controlled relaxation of the muscles. The exact mechanism of action of Botox is not known. However, it is thought to block certain chemical signals from the nerves that stimulate muscles, causing them to relax. This prevents contraction of the muscles and helps to ease symptoms such