2.1       Instructions for Safe Use

The potency Units of BOTOX Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) for injection are specific to the preparation and assay method utilized. BOTOX Cosmetic is not equivalent to other preparations of botulinum toxin products, and therefore, units of biological activity of BOTOX Cosmetic cannot be compared to nor converted into units of any other botulinum toxin products assessed with any other specific assay method [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Description (11)].

Follow indication specific dosage and administration recommendations. Do not exceed the maximum recommended cumulative dose in a treatment session for any indication.

The safe and effective use of BOTOX Cosmetic depends upon proper storage of the product, selection of the correct dose, and proper reconstitution and administration techniques. Physicians administering BOTOX Cosmetic must understand the relevant neuromuscular and structural anatomy of the area involved and any alterations to the anatomy due to prior surgical procedures and disease.

Do not use BOTOX Cosmetic and contact AbbVie (1-800-678-1605) if:

• The tamper evident features on the carton appear to be broken or compromised, or
  
• The U.S. License number 1889 is not present on the vial label and carton labeling [see How Supplied/Storage and Handling (16)]

2.2       Recommended Dose

The total recommended dose in adult patients by treatment area is shown in Table 1. BOTOX Cosmetic is administered by intramuscular injection.

The safety and effectiveness of dosing with BOTOX Cosmetic more frequently than every 3 months have not been clinically evaluated.

2.3       Preparation and Reconstitution Instructions

BOTOX Cosmetic is supplied in single-dose 50 Units and 100 Units per vial. Prior to intramuscular injection, reconstitute each vacuum-dried vial of BOTOX Cosmetic with sterile, preservative-free 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection USP (see Table 2). Draw up the proper amount of diluent in the appropriate size needle and syringe to obtain a reconstituted solution at a concentration of 4 Units/0.1 mL.

*Preservative-free 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP Only

Slowly inject the diluent into the vial. Discard the vial if a vacuum does not pull the diluent into the vial. Gently mix BOTOX Cosmetic with the saline by rotating the vial. Record the date and time of reconstitution on the space on the label. Administer BOTOX Cosmetic within 24 hours after reconstitution. During this time period, store reconstituted BOTOX Cosmetic in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze reconstituted BOTOX Cosmetic. BOTOX Cosmetic vials are for single-dose only. Discard any remaining solution.

Reconstituted BOTOX Cosmetic is clear, colorless to slightly yellow solution, and free of particulate matter. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration and whenever the solution and the container permit. Do not use if the solution is cloudy or contains flakes or particles.

2.4       Administration

Draw properly reconstituted toxin into the sterile syringe, preferably a tuberculin syringe, and expel any air bubbles in the syringe barrel (see Table 3). Remove the needle used to reconstitute the product and attach a 30-33 gauge needle. Confirm the patency of the needle.

Glabellar Lines

An effective dose for facial lines is determined by gross observation of the patient’s ability to activate the superficial muscles injected.

In order to reduce the complication of ptosis, take the following steps:

• Avoid injection near the levator palpebrae superioris, particularly in patients with larger brow depressor complexes.
  
• Place lateral corrugator injections at least 1 cm above the bony supraorbital ridge.
  
• Ensure the injected volume/dose is accurate and where feasible kept to a minimum.
  
• Do not inject toxin closer than 1 cm above the central eyebrow.

Inject 4 Units (0.1 mL) of reconstituted BOTOX Cosmetic intramuscularly into each of 5 sites, 2 in each corrugator muscle and 1 in the procerus muscle for a total dose of 20 Units (see Figure 1). Typically, the initial doses of reconstituted BOTOX Cosmetic induce chemical denervation of the injected muscles one to two days after injection, increasing in intensity during the first week.

The duration of effect of BOTOX Cosmetic for glabellar lines is approximately 3-4 months.

Figure 1:

Lateral Canthal Lines

Give injections with the needle bevel tip up and oriented away from the eye. Inject 4 Units (0.1 mL) of reconstituted BOTOX Cosmetic into 3 sites per side (6 total injection points) in the lateral orbicularis oculi muscle for a total of 24 Units (0.6 mL) (12 Units per side). Administer the first injection (A) approximately 1.5-2.0 cm temporal to the lateral canthus and just temporal to the orbital rim. If the lines in the lateral canthal region are above and below the lateral canthus, inject per Figure 2. Alternatively, if the lines in the lateral canthal region are primarily below the lateral canthus, inject per Figure 3.

For simultaneous treatment with glabellar lines, the dose is 24 Units for lateral canthal lines and 20 Units for glabellar lines (see Glabellar Lines Administration and Figure 1), with a total dose of 44 Units.

Forehead Lines in Conjunction with Glabellar Lines

Treat forehead lines in conjunction with glabellar lines (see Glabellar Lines Administration and Figure 1) to minimize the potential for brow ptosis. The recommended total dose for treatment of forehead lines (20 Units [0.5 mL]) in conjunction with glabellar lines (20 Units [0.5 mL]) is 40 Units (1 mL).

When identifying the location of the appropriate injection sites in the frontalis muscle, assess the overall relationship between the size of the subject’s forehead, and the distribution of frontalis muscle activity.

Locate the following horizontal treatment rows by light palpation of the forehead at rest and maximum eyebrow elevation:

• Superior Margin of Frontalis Activity: approximately 1 cm above the most superior forehead crease
  
• Lower Treatment Row: midway between the superior margin of frontalis activity and the eyebrow, at least 2 cm above the eyebrow
  
• Upper Treatment Row: midway between the superior margin of frontalis activity and lower treatment row

Inject 4 Units (0.1 mL) of reconstituted BOTOX Cosmetic into 5 sites in the frontalis muscle, for a total of 20 Units (0.5 mL). Place the 5 injections at the intersection of the horizontal treatment rows with the following vertical landmarks (see Figure 4):

• On the lower treatment row at the midline of the face, and 0.5 – 1.5 cm medial to the palpated temporal fusion line (temporal crest); repeat for the other side.
  
• On the upper treatment row, midway between the lateral and medial sites on the lower treatment row; repeat for the other side.

Figure 4:

For simultaneous treatment with lateral canthal lines, the total dose is 64 Units, comprised of 20 Units for forehead lines, 20 Units for glabellar lines, and 24 Units for lateral canthal lines (see Lateral Canthal Lines Administration and Figures 2 and 3).

Platysma Bands

Using an appropriately sized sterile syringe, needle, and aseptic technique, inject 2 Units (0.05 mL) of reconstituted BOTOX Cosmetic into 4 sites in the upper segment of platysma muscle, below the jawline on each side. For each side, administer the 4 jawline injections to the upper platysma muscle approximately 1 to 2 cm inferior and parallel to the lower mandibular border. Ensure the anterior injection site is in line with the oral commissure, and the posterior injection is slightly anterior to the angle of the mandible. Administer the remaining 2 injections equidistant (approximately 1 to 2 cm apart) between the anterior and posterior injection points (see Figures 5 and 6).

In addition, inject 1 Unit (0.025 mL) of reconstituted BOTOX Cosmetic into 5 sites along each vertical neck band, 1 to 2 vertical neck bands per side. For each vertical neck band identified, 1 to 2 per side, distribute 5 injections vertically approximately 1 to 2 cm apart (see Figures 5 and 6). Ensure the most superior injection site is approximately 1 to 2 cm inferior to the jawline injections. 

Depending on platysma band severity, the total dose may be 26 Units (1 band/side), 31 Units (1 band one side, 2 bands other side), or 36 Units (2 bands/side) (see Table 4 and Figures 5 and 6 below).

Figure 5: Injection Sites for Platysma Band (2 Bands)

Figure 6: Injection Sites for Platysma Band (1 Band)

Administer all platysma muscle injections superficially and intramuscularly with the needle perpendicular to the surface of the skin. For vertical neck band injections, identify each band while the patient is contracting their platysma. Gently pinch the band to isolate the muscle from nearby anatomical structures during administration (see Table 4).

To reduce injection-related complications, administer injection at least 1 cm inferior to the lower mandibular border. Do not inject into structures deep to the platysma muscle, particularly in the anterior region of the neck.

4.1       Known Hypersensitivity to Botulinum Toxin

BOTOX Cosmetic is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to any botulinum toxin preparation or to any of the components in the formulation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

4.2       Infection at the Injection Site(s)

BOTOX Cosmetic is contraindicated in the presence of infection at the proposed injection site(s).

5.1       Lack of Equivalency Between Botulinum Toxin Products

The potency Units of BOTOX Cosmetic are specific to the preparation and assay method utilized. BOTOX Cosmetic is not equivalent to other preparations of botulinum toxin products, and therefore, Units of biological activity of BOTOX Cosmetic cannot be compared to nor converted into Units of any other botulinum toxin products assessed with any other specific assay method [see Description (11)].

5.2       Spread of Toxin Effect

Postmarketing safety data from BOTOX Cosmetic and other approved botulinum toxins suggest that botulinum toxin effects may, in some cases, be observed beyond the site of local injection. The symptoms are consistent with the mechanism of action of botulinum toxin and may include asthenia, generalized muscle weakness, diplopia, ptosis, dysphagia, dysphonia, dysarthria, urinary incontinence, and breathing difficulties. These symptoms have been reported hours to weeks after injection. Swallowing and breathing difficulties can be life threatening and there have been reports of death related to spread of toxin effects. The risk of symptoms is probably greatest in children treated for spasticity but symptoms can also occur in adults treated for spasticity and other conditions, and particularly in those patients who have an underlying condition that would predispose them to these symptoms. In unapproved uses and in approved indications, symptoms consistent with spread of toxin effect have been reported at doses comparable to or lower than doses used to treat cervical dystonia and spasticity. Advise patients or caregivers to seek immediate medical care if swallowing, speech or respiratory disorders occur.

No definitive serious adverse event reports of distant spread of toxin effect associated with dermatologic use of BOTOX/BOTOX Cosmetic at the labeled dose of 20 Units (for glabellar lines), 24 Units (for lateral canthal lines), 40 Units (for forehead lines with glabellar lines), 44 Units (for simultaneous treatment of lateral canthal lines and glabellar lines), 64 Units (for simultaneous treatment of lateral canthal lines, glabellar lines, and forehead lines), or 100 Units (for severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis) have been reported.

No definitive serious adverse event reports of distant spread of toxin effect associated with BOTOX for blepharospasm at the recommended dose (30 Units and below), strabismus, or chronic migraine at the labeled doses have been reported.

5.3       Serious Adverse Reactions with Unapproved Use

Serious adverse reactions, including excessive weakness, dysphagia, and aspiration pneumonia, with some adverse reactions associated with fatal outcomes, have been reported in patients who received BOTOX injections for unapproved uses. In these cases, the adverse reactions were not necessarily related to distant spread of toxin, but may have resulted from the administration of BOTOX to the site of injection and/or adjacent structures. In several of the cases, patients had pre-existing dysphagia or other significant disabilities. There is insufficient information to identify factors associated with an increased risk for adverse reactions associated with the unapproved uses of BOTOX. The safety and effectiveness of BOTOX for unapproved uses have not been established.

5.4       Hypersensitivity Reactions

Serious and/or immediate hypersensitivity reactions have been reported. These reactions include anaphylaxis, serum sickness, urticaria, soft tissue edema, and dyspnea. If such a reaction occurs, discontinue further injection of BOTOX Cosmetic and immediately institute appropriate medical therapy. One fatal case of anaphylaxis has been reported in which lidocaine was used as the diluent, and consequently the causal agent cannot be reliably determined.

5.5       Cardiovascular System

There have been reports following administration of BOTOX/BOTOX Cosmetic of adverse events involving the cardiovascular system, including arrhythmia and myocardial infarction, some with fatal outcomes. Some of these patients had risk factors including pre-existing cardiovascular disease. Use caution when administering to patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease.

5.6       Increased Risk of Clinically Significant Effects with Pre-Existing Neuromuscular Disorders

Patients with neuromuscular disorders may be at increased risk of clinically significant effects including generalized muscle weakness, diplopia, ptosis, dysphonia, dysarthria, severe dysphagia and respiratory compromise from onabotulinumtoxinA [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.7)]. Monitor individuals with peripheral motor neuropathic diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or neuromuscular junction disorders (e.g., myasthenia gravis or Lambert-Eaton syndrome) when given botulinum toxin.

5.7       Dysphagia and Breathing Difficulties

Treatment with BOTOX and other botulinum toxin products can result in swallowing or breathing difficulties. Patients with pre-existing swallowing or breathing difficulties may be more susceptible to these complications. In most cases, this is a consequence of weakening of muscles in the area of injection that are involved in breathing or oropharyngeal muscles that control swallowing or breathing [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Deaths as a complication of severe dysphagia have been reported after treatment with botulinum toxin. Dysphagia may persist for several months, and require use of a feeding tube to maintain adequate nutrition and hydration. Aspiration may result from severe dysphagia and is a particular risk when treating patients in whom swallowing or respiratory function is already compromised.

Treatment with botulinum toxins may weaken neck muscles that serve as accessory muscles of ventilation. This may result in a critical loss of breathing capacity in patients with respiratory disorders who may have become dependent upon these accessory muscles. There have been postmarketing reports of serious breathing difficulties, including respiratory failure.

Patients with smaller neck muscle mass and patients who require bilateral injections into the sternocleidomastoid muscle for the treatment of cervical dystonia have been reported to be at greater risk for dysphagia. Limiting the dose injected into the sternocleidomastoid muscle may reduce the occurrence of dysphagia. Injections into the levator scapulae may be associated with an increased risk of upper respiratory infection and dysphagia.

Patients treated with botulinum toxin may require immediate medical attention should they develop problems with swallowing, speech or respiratory disorders. These reactions can occur within hours to weeks after injection with botulinum toxin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

5.8       Pre-existing Conditions at the Injection Site

Use caution when BOTOX Cosmetic treatment is used in the presence of inflammation at the proposed injection site(s), ptosis, or when excessive weakness or atrophy is present in the targeted muscle(s).  

5.9       Corneal Exposure and Ulceration in Patients Treated with BOTOX for Blepharospasm

Reduced blinking from injection of botulinum toxin products in or near the orbicularis oculi muscle can lead to corneal exposure, persistent corneal epithelial defect, and corneal ulceration, especially in patients with VII nerve disorders.

Employ vigorous treatment of any corneal epithelial defect. This may require protective drops, ointment, therapeutic soft contact lenses, or closure of the eye by patching or other means.

5.10       Dry Eye in Patients Treated with BOTOX Cosmetic

There have been reports of dry eye associated with BOTOX Cosmetic injection in or near the orbicularis oculi muscle. If symptoms of dry eye (e.g., eye irritation, photophobia, or visual changes) persist, consider referring patients to an ophthalmologist [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].

5.11       Spatial Disorientation, Double Vision or Past-Pointing in Patients Treated for Strabismus

Inducing paralysis in one or more extraocular muscles may produce spatial disorientation, double vision or past pointing. Covering the affected eye may alleviate these symptoms.

5.12       Human Albumin and Transmission of Viral Diseases

This product contains albumin, a derivative of human blood. Based on effective donor screening and product manufacturing processes, it carries a remote risk for transmission of viral diseases and variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD). There is a theoretical risk for transmission of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD), which would also be considered remote. No cases of transmission of viral diseases, CJD or vCJD have ever been identified for licensed albumin or albumin contained in other licensed products.

6.1       Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, the adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice.

BOTOX and BOTOX Cosmetic contain the same active ingredient in the same formulation, but have different labeled Indications and Usage. Therefore, adverse events observed with the use of BOTOX also have the potential to be observed with the use of BOTOX Cosmetic.

In general, adverse reactions occur within the first week following injection of BOTOX Cosmetic and while in many cases are transient, may have a duration of several months or longer. Localized pain, infection, inflammation, tenderness, swelling, erythema, and/or bleeding/bruising may be associated with the injection. Needle-related pain and/or anxiety may result in vasovagal responses (including e.g., syncope, hypotension), which may require appropriate medical therapy.

Local weakness of the injected muscle(s) represents the expected pharmacological action of botulinum toxin. However, weakness of nearby muscles may also occur due to spread of toxin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Glabellar Lines

Table 5 lists selected adverse reactions reported by ≥1% of BOTOX Cosmetic treated subjects (N=405) aged 18 to 75 who were evaluated in the randomized, placebo-controlled clinical studies to assess the use of BOTOX Cosmetic in the improvement of the appearance of glabellar lines.

Lateral Canthal Lines

Table 6 lists selected adverse reactions reported within 90 days following injection by ≥1% of BOTOX Cosmetic treated subjects (N=526) aged 18 to 75 who were evaluated in two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies to assess the use of BOTOX Cosmetic in the improvement of the appearance of lateral canthal lines alone. 

Forehead Lines

Table 7 lists selected adverse reactions reported by ≥1% of BOTOX Cosmetic treated subjects (N=665) aged 18 to 77 who were evaluated in two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies to assess the use of BOTOX Cosmetic in the improvement of the appearance of forehead lines with glabellar lines. 

There were no additional adverse drug reactions reported with the simultaneous treatment of forehead lines, glabellar lines, and lateral canthal lines.

Platysma Bands

The safety of BOTOX Cosmetic (26 Units, 31 Units, or 36 Units) was evaluated in two double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical trials with 407 BOTOX Cosmetic-treated subjects and 425 subjects receiving placebo.

The safety profile of BOTOX Cosmetic treatment of platysma bands is consistent with the known safety profile of BOTOX Cosmetic for other indications.

6.2       Postmarketing Experience

Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

There have been spontaneous reports of death, sometimes associated with dysphagia, pneumonia, and/or other significant debility or anaphylaxis, after treatment with botulinum toxin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4, 5.7)].

There have also been reports of adverse events involving the cardiovascular system, including arrhythmia and myocardial infarction, some with fatal outcomes. Some of these patients had risk factors including cardiovascular disease.

New onset or recurrent seizures have also been reported, typically in patients who are predisposed to experiencing these events.

The following adverse reactions by System Organ Class have been identified during post-approval use of BOTOX/BOTOX Cosmetic:

Ear and labyrinth disorders

Hypoacusis; tinnitus; vertigo

Eye disorders

Diplopia; dry eye; eyelid edema; lagophthalmos; strabismus; visual disturbances; vision blurred

Gastrointestinal disorders

Abdominal pain; diarrhea; dry mouth; nausea; vomiting

General disorders and administration site conditions

Denervation; malaise; pyrexia

Metabolism and nutrition disorders

Anorexia

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders

Localized muscle twitching/involuntary muscle contractions; Mephisto sign; muscle atrophy; myalgia 

Nervous system disorders

Brachial plexopathy; dysarthria; facial palsy; hypoaesthesia; localized numbness; myasthenia gravis; paresthesia; peripheral neuropathy; radiculopathy; syncope

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders

Aspiration pneumonia; dyspnea; respiratory depression and/or respiratory failure

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

Alopecia, including madarosis; hyperhidrosis; pruritus; skin rash (including erythema multiforme, dermatitis psoriasiform, and psoriasiform eruption)

7.1       Aminoglycosides and Other Agents Interfering with Neuromuscular Transmission

Co-administration of BOTOX Cosmetic and aminoglycosides or other agents interfering with neuromuscular transmission (e.g., curare-like compounds) should only be performed with caution as the effect of the toxin may be potentiated.

7.2       Anticholinergic Drugs

Use of anticholinergic drugs after administration of BOTOX Cosmetic may potentiate systemic anticholinergic effects.

7.3       Other Botulinum Neurotoxin Products

The effect of administering different botulinum neurotoxin products at the same time or within several months of each other is unknown. Excessive neuromuscular weakness may be exacerbated by administration of another botulinum toxin prior to the resolution of the effects of a previously administered botulinum toxin.

7.4       Muscle Relaxants

Excessive weakness may also be exaggerated by administration of a muscle relaxant before or after administration of BOTOX Cosmetic.

8.1       Pregnancy

Risk Summary

There are no studies or adequate data from postmarketing surveillance on the developmental risk associated with use of BOTOX Cosmetic in pregnant women.  

In animal studies, administrations of BOTOX Cosmetic during pregnancy resulted in adverse effects on fetal growth (decreased fetal body weight and skeletal ossification) at clinically relevant doses, which were associated with maternal toxicity [see Data].

The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriages in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively.

Data

Animal Data

When BOTOX Cosmetic (4, 8, or 16 Units/kg) was administered intramuscularly to pregnant mice or rats two times during the period of organogenesis (on gestation days 5 and 13), reductions in fetal body weight and decreased fetal skeletal ossification were observed at the two highest doses. The no-effect dose for developmental toxicity in these studies (4 Units/kg) is approximately 4 times the average high human dose for glabellar lines, lateral canthal lines, and forehead lines of 64 Units on a body weight basis (Units/kg).

When BOTOX Cosmetic was administered intramuscularly to pregnant rats (0.125, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 4, or 8 Units/kg) or rabbits (0.063, 0.125, 0.25, or 0.5 Units/kg) daily during the period of organogenesis (total of 12 doses in rats, 13 doses in rabbits), reduced fetal body weights and decreased fetal skeletal ossification were observed at the two highest doses in rats and at the highest dose in rabbits. These doses were also associated with significant maternal toxicity, including abortions, early deliveries, and maternal death. The developmental no-effect doses in these studies of 1 Unit/kg in rats is approximately equal the average high human dose of 64 Units based on Units/kg, and the developmental no-effect dose of 0.25 Units/kg in rabbits is less than the average high human dose based on Units/kg.

When pregnant rats received single intramuscular injections (1, 4, or 16 Units/kg) at three different periods of development (prior to implantation, implantation, or organogenesis), no adverse effects on fetal development were observed. The developmental no-effect level for a single maternal dose in rats (16 Units/kg) is approximately 16 times the average high human dose of 64 Units based on Units/kg.

8.2       Lactation

Risk Summary

There are no data on the presence of BOTOX Cosmetic in human or animal milk, the effects on the breastfed child, or the effects on milk production.  

The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for BOTOX Cosmetic and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from BOTOX Cosmetic or from the underlying maternal conditions.

8.4       Pediatric Use

The safety and effectiveness of BOTOX Cosmetic have not been established in pediatric patients.

8.5       Geriatric Use

Glabellar Lines

In the two initial glabellar lines clinical studies of BOTOX Cosmetic, the responder rates appeared to be higher for subjects younger than age 65 than for subjects 65 years or older [see Clinical Studies (14)].

Lateral Canthal Lines

In the two lateral canthal lines clinical studies of BOTOX Cosmetic, the responder rates appeared to be higher for subjects younger than age 65 than for subjects 65 years or older.

Forehead Lines

In the two forehead lines clinical studies of BOTOX Cosmetic, the responder rates appeared to be higher for subjects younger than age 65 than for subjects 65 years or older.

Platysma Bands

In the two platysma bands clinical studies of BOTOX Cosmetic, 3.6% of subjects (13 subjects) treated with BOTOX Cosmetic were 65 years or older. Although the responder rates appeared to be higher for subjects younger than age 65 than for subjects 65 years or older, clinical studies of BOTOX Cosmetic did not include sufficient numbers of subjects 65 years or older to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects.

12.1       Mechanism of Action

BOTOX Cosmetic blocks neuromuscular transmission by binding to acceptor sites on motor nerve terminals, entering the nerve terminals, and inhibiting the release of acetylcholine. This inhibition occurs as the neurotoxin cleaves SNAP-25, a pre-synaptic protein integral to the successful docking and release of acetylcholine from vesicles situated within nerve endings. When injected intramuscularly at therapeutic doses, BOTOX Cosmetic produces partial chemical denervation of the muscle resulting in a localized reduction in muscle activity. In addition, the muscle may atrophy, axonal sprouting may occur, and extrajunctional acetylcholine receptors may develop. There is evidence that reinnervation of the muscle may occur, thus slowly reversing muscle denervation produced by BOTOX Cosmetic.

12.2       Pharmacodynamics

No formal pharmacodynamic studies have been conducted with BOTOX Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) for injection.

12.3       Pharmacokinetics

Using currently available analytical technology, it is not possible to detect BOTOX Cosmetic in the peripheral blood following intramuscular injection at the recommended doses.

12.6       Immunogenicity

Since BOTOX Cosmetic is a therapeutic protein, there is a potential for immunogenicity. The detection of antibody formation is highly dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay. Additionally, the observed incidence of antibody (including neutralizing antibody) positivity in an assay may be influenced by several factors including assay methodology, sample handling, timing of sample collection, concomitant medications, and underlying disease. For these reasons, comparison of the incidence of antibodies to BOTOX Cosmetic in the studies described below with the incidence of antibodies in other studies or to other products may be misleading.

In three Lateral Canthal Line trials, 916 subjects (517 subjects at 24 Units and 399 subjects at 44 Units) treated with BOTOX Cosmetic had specimens analyzed for antibody formation. Among the 916 BOTOX Cosmetic treated subjects, 14 subjects (1.5%) developed binding antibodies and no subjects (0%) developed the presence of neutralizing antibodies.

The data reflect the subjects whose test results were considered positive or negative for neutralizing activity to BOTOX Cosmetic in a mouse protection assay.

The critical factors for neutralizing antibody formation have not been well characterized. The results from some studies suggest that botulinum toxin injections at more frequent intervals or at higher doses may lead to greater incidence of antibody formation. The potential for antibody formation may be minimized by injecting with the lowest effective dose given at the longest feasible intervals between injections.

13.1       Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Long term studies in animals have not been performed to evaluate carcinogenic potential of BOTOX Cosmetic.

BOTOX Cosmetic was negative in a battery of in vitro (microbial reverse mutation assay, mammalian cell mutation assay, and chromosomal aberration assay) and in vivo (micronucleus assay) genetic toxicologic assays.

In fertility studies of BOTOX Cosmetic (4, 8, or 16 Units/kg) in which either male or female rats were injected intramuscularly prior to mating and on the day of mating (3 doses, 2 weeks apart for males, 2 doses, 2 weeks apart for females) to untreated animals, reduced fertility was observed in males at the intermediate and high doses and in females at the high dose. The no-effect doses for reproductive toxicity (4 Units/kg in males, 8 Units/kg in females) are approximately 4-8 times the average high human dose for glabellar lines, lateral canthal lines, and forehead lines of 64 Units on a body weight basis (Units/kg).

14.1       Glabellar Lines

Two randomized, multi-center, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies of identical design were conducted to evaluate BOTOX Cosmetic for use in the temporary improvement of the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar facial lines. The studies enrolled healthy adults (ages 18 to 75) with glabellar lines of at least moderate severity at maximum frown. Subjects were excluded if they had ptosis, deep dermal scarring, or an inability to substantially lessen glabellar lines even by physically spreading them apart. Subjects received a single treatment with BOTOX Cosmetic (N=405, combined studies) or placebo (N=132, combined studies). Injection volume was 0.1 mL/injection site, for a dose/injection site in the active treatment groups of 4 Units. Subjects were injected intramuscularly in five sites, 1 in the procerus muscle and 2 in each corrugator supercilii muscle, for a total dose in the active treatment groups of 20 Units.

The co-primary efficacy endpoints were the investigator’s rating of glabellar line severity at maximum frown and the subject’s global assessment of change in appearance of glabellar lines, both at Day 30 post-injection. For the investigator rating, using a 4-point grading scale (0=none, 3=severe) a responder was defined as having a severity grade of 0 or 1. For the subject’s global assessment of change, the ratings were from +4 (complete improvement) to -4 (very marked worsening). A responder was defined as having a grade of at least +2 (moderate improvement). After completion of the randomized studies, subjects were offered participation in an open label, repeat treatment study to assess the safety of repeated treatment sessions.

The combined results of these two efficacy studies are presented here. The mean age was 46 years, with 32 subjects (6%) ≥65 years of age. Most of the subjects were women (82%), and White (84%). At baseline, 210 subjects (39%) had glabellar line severity scores at rest of moderate or severe.

In these studies, the severity of glabellar lines was reduced for up to 120 days in the BOTOX Cosmetic group compared to the placebo group as measured both by investigator rating of glabellar line severity at maximum frown (Table 8), and by subject’s global assessment of change in appearance of glabellar lines (Table 9).

a 95% confidence intervals are shown in parenthesis

b Day 30: Co-Primary Efficacy Time point, p<0.001

a 95% confidence intervals are shown in parenthesis

b Day 30: Co-Primary Efficacy Time point, p<0.001

In the subset of subjects with resting severity scores of moderate or severe, the investigator assessment of a resting severity of mild or none at Day 30 was also achieved by more BOTOX Cosmetic treated subjects (74%, 119/161) than placebo treated subjects (20%, 10/49).

Analysis of the limited number of subjects 65 years or older suggested a lower treatment-associated response compared to subjects less than 65 years of age (Table 10).

a 95% confidence intervals are shown in parenthesis

Exploratory analyses by gender suggested that responder rates in the BOTOX Cosmetic treated group were higher for women than for men for both the investigator assessment (Day 30; 85% of 334 women, 59% of 71 men) and the Subject Assessment (Day 30; 93% of women, 72% of men). In the limited number of subjects that identified as other races (n=64 in the BOTOX Cosmetic treated group) the responder rates were similar to those observed in White subjects.

14.2       Lateral Canthal Lines

Two  multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies evaluated BOTOX Cosmetic (N=833, randomized to receive any BOTOX Cosmetic treatment or N=529 randomized to receive placebo) for the temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe lateral canthal lines (LCL). Study 1 assessed BOTOX Cosmetic treatment of LCL alone; Study 2 also assessed simultaneous treatment of LCL and glabellar lines (GL). Both studies enrolled healthy adults with moderate to severe LCL at maximum smile at baseline; Study 2 also required subjects to have moderate to severe GL at maximum frown at baseline.

In the 5-month Study 1, subjects were randomized to receive a single blinded treatment of 24 Units/0.6 mL (12 Units per side) consisting of 4 Units/0.1 mL into 3 sites of each orbicularis oculi muscle with either BOTOX Cosmetic (N=222) or placebo (N=223).

In the 7-month Study 2, subjects were randomized to receive either BOTOX Cosmetic in the LCL region and placebo in the GL region (24 Units; N=306), or BOTOX Cosmetic in the LCL and GL regions (44 Units [24 Units for LCL and 20 Units for GL]; N=305), or placebo in the LCL and GL regions (0 Units; N=306). Subjects received the same 24 Units regimen for LCL as in Study 1, and the labeled 20 Units (5 injections, 4 Units per site) for GL. Subjects received the same treatment at days 1 and 120.

The primary efficacy measure was the assessment of LCL severity at maximum smile using the 4-point Facial Wrinkle Scale with Photonumeric Guide (FWS; 0=none, 1= mild, 2=moderate, 3=severe). The FWS assessment was performed independently by both investigators and subjects. The primary timepoint was day 30 following the first treatment, as compared to baseline.

The primary efficacy response definition was a composite ≥2-grade improvement from baseline in LCL severity at maximum smile, assessed by both investigator and subject on a per-subject basis. For Studies 1 and 2, the proportion of responders was statistically significant favoring BOTOX Cosmetic (24 Units [LCL alone] and 44 Units [LCL and GL]) compared to placebo at day 30 (Table 11).

The secondary endpoint of a responder defined as achieving a grade of none or mild for Study 1 as measured by the investigator is presented in Figure 7 below.

Figure 7: Percentage of Subjects with Treatment Success (% of Subjects achieving None or Mild from Baseline) by Visit (Study 1)

14.3       Forehead Lines

Two multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies evaluated BOTOX Cosmetic (N=921, randomized to receive any BOTOX Cosmetic treatment or N=257, randomized to receive placebo) for the temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe forehead lines (FHL).

Study 1 assessed BOTOX Cosmetic treatment of FHL with glabellar lines (GL); Study 2 also assessed simultaneous treatment of FHL, GL, and lateral canthal lines [LCL]. Both studies enrolled healthy adults with moderate to severe FHL at maximum eyebrow elevation at baseline and moderate to severe GL at maximum frown at baseline; Study 2 also required subjects to have moderate to severe LCL at maximum smile at baseline.

In the 12-month Study 1, subjects were randomized to receive BOTOX Cosmetic 20 Units to the frontalis muscle with 20 Units to the glabellar region (for a total of 40 Units) or placebo in both areas.

In the 12-month Study 2, subjects were randomized to receive BOTOX Cosmetic 20 Units to the frontalis muscle, 20 Units to the glabellar region, and 0 Units to the LCL region (for a total of 40 units) or BOTOX Cosmetic 20 Units to the frontalis muscle, 20 Units to the glabellar region, and 24 Units to the LCL region (for a total of 64 Units) or placebo in all three areas.

The primary efficacy measure was the assessment of FHL severity at maximum eyebrow elevation using the 4-point Facial Wrinkle Scale with Photonumeric Guide (FWS; 0=none, 1= mild, 2=moderate, 3=severe). The FWS assessment was performed independently by both investigators and subjects. The primary timepoint was Day 30 following the first treatment.

The primary efficacy response definition was a composite ≥2-grade improvement from baseline in FHL severity at maximum eyebrow elevation, assessed by both investigator and subject on a per-subject basis. For Studies 1 and 2, the proportion of responders was greater in the BOTOX Cosmetic arms compared to placebo at Day 30 (p<0.0001 for Studies 1 and 2) (Table 12).

A total of 165 and 197 subjects received 3 cycles over 1 year of BOTOX Cosmetic 40 Units (20 Units FHL with 20 Units GL) and 64 Units (20 Units FHL, 20 Units GL, and 24 Units LCL), respectively. The response rate for FHL was similar across all treatment cycles.

The results for a key secondary endpoint of responders achieving a grade of none or mild on investigator ratings at maximum eyebrow elevation of FHL severity are presented below for Studies 1 and 2.

Figure 8: Percentage of Subjects with Treatment Success (Achieving None or Mild FHL from Baseline at Maximum Eyebrow Elevation) by Visit (Study 1)

Figure 9: Percentage of Subjects with Treatment Success (Achieving None or Mild FHL from Baseline at Maximum Eyebrow Elevation) by Visit (Study 2)

The results of the Facial Line Satisfaction Questionnaire are presented in Table 13.

14.4       Platysma Bands

Two multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials (Study M21-309 [NCT04949399] and Study M21-310 [NCT04994535]) evaluated BOTOX Cosmetic (N=408 BOTOX Cosmetic and N=426 placebo) for the temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe platysma bands. Based on baseline severity, subjects were randomized to receive a single treatment of BOTOX Cosmetic (26 Units, 31 Units, or 36 Units), or placebo.

The primary efficacy measure was the assessment of platysma band severity at maximum contraction using the 5-grade clinician platysma band scale by the investigators, and the 5-grade participant platysma band scale by the subjects. For both scales, the 5 grades are 1=Minimal, 2=Mild, 3=Moderate, 4=Severe, 5=Extreme (Table 14). The investigator and subject assessments were performed independently.

The primary timepoint was Day 14 after the first treatment. The studies enrolled healthy adults with moderate to severe platysma bands. In these studies, 94% were female, 91% were White, 5% were Asian, 3% were Black or African American; for ethnicity, 86% identified as not Hispanic or Latino. Subjects were 19 to 82 years old, with a mean age of 49 years.

The primary efficacy endpoint was a multi-component endpoint defined as achievement of Grade 1 or 2 (Minimal or Mild) and at least a 2-grade improvement from baseline in platysma band severity at maximum contraction, assessed by both investigator and subject at Day 14 (Table 15).

1. Grade 1 or 2 (Minimal or Mild) and ≥ 2-grade improvement from baseline at maximum contraction on both the investigator and subject assessments at Day 14.
   
2. Grade 1 or 2 (Minimal or Mild) and ≥ 2-grade improvement from baseline at maximum contraction on the investigator assessment at Day 14.
   
3. Grade 1 or 2 (Minimal or Mild) and ≥ 2-grade improvement from baseline at maximum contraction on the subject assessment at Day 14.
   
4. 95% confidence intervals are shown in parentheses.

The percentages of subjects achieving these endpoints over time are shown in Figure 10 (Study M21-309) and Figure 11 (Study M21-310).

Figure 10: Percentages of Subjects Achieving a Grade 1 or 2 (Minimal or Mild) and at Least 2-Grade Improvement from Baseline Based on Both the Investigator and Subject Assessments of Platysma Band Severity at Maximum Contraction Over Time (Study M21-309)

Figure 11: Percentages of Subjects Achieving a Grade 1 or 2 (Minimal or Mild) and at Least 2-Grade Improvement from Baseline Based on Both the Investigator and Subject Assessments of Platysma Band Severity at Maximum Contraction Over Time (Study M21-310)

The results for Appearance of Neck and Lower Face Questionnaire: Satisfaction (Follow-up) Item 5 at Day 14 secondary efficacy endpoints are presented for Studies M21-309 and M21-310 in Table 16.