The application and therapeutic effect of botulinum toxin type a (BTX-A) in the treatment of patients with pain after cancer treatment: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: Botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) is a potential treatment for cancer pain. This study aimed to analyze the effectiveness and safety of BTX-A in the treatment of pain after cancer treatment. Patients and methods: Systematic searches of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases were conducted. Randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of BTX-A compared with either placebo or active treatment in patients with pain after cancer treatment were included. The outcomes included pain intensity, quality of life, and adverse events. Results: This systematic review included four studies of which 2 were included in the meta-analysis. Compared with a placebo, BTX-A injection in patients with pain after cancer treatment had a clinically meaningful reduction in self-reported pain post-treatment (mean difference=−1.79 [95% confidence interval (CI), −2.14 to −1.43], P＜0.00001, I²=0%). Conclusion: This systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated that BTX-A is safe and effective for pain relief in patients with pain after cancer treatment.