Question

What role does substance P play in trigeminal neuralgia, and how does Botox contribute to its reduction?

a. Substance P promotes nerve damage; Botox enhances its release.
b. Substance P increases pain signaling; Botox blocks its release.
c. Substance P relaxes muscles; Botox inhibits its synthesis.
d. Substance P decreases pain sensitivity; Botox promotes its release.

Answer 1

Substance P is a neuropeptide that increases pain signaling. Botox can reduce the release of Substance P and subsequently decrease pain signaling.

Step-by-step explanation:

Substance P (SP) is a neuropeptide that plays a role in pain signaling in the central and peripheral nervous system. It increases pain signaling and is associated with conditions like trigeminal neuralgia, which is characterized by severe facial pain.

Botox (botulinum toxin) works by blocking the release of acetylcholine from motor neurons, which in turn inhibits muscle contractions. In the case of trigeminal neuralgia, Botox injections can reduce pain by interrupting the release of Substance P and decreasing pain signaling.