Effects of Botulinum Toxin on Upper Limb Function in Stroke Patients

The Effects of Early and Late Injection of Botulinum Toxin Type A on Upper Limb Function in Patients With Stroke

Phase 3 Interventional National Cheng-Kung University Hospital · NCT02580838

This study tests whether getting Botox injections sooner or later can help stroke patients with stiff arms move better.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 3
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorNational Cheng-Kung University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Tainan)
Trial IDNCT02580838 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of early versus late injections of OnabotulinumtoxinA in improving upper limb function in stroke patients experiencing spasticity. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: those receiving early injections when spasticity develops, those receiving injections six months later, and a control group with no injections. The study will assess functional outcomes to determine the optimal timing for intervention. By comparing these groups, the research seeks to provide insights into the best practices for managing spasticity post-stroke.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are stroke survivors with spasticity affecting one side of their body.

Not a fit: Patients with pre-existing musculoskeletal conditions affecting upper limb function or those with certain neuromuscular disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved rehabilitation strategies for stroke patients, enhancing their upper limb function and overall quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with botulinum toxin for spasticity management, indicating potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* stroke affecting one body side
* spasticity develops after stroke

Exclusion Criteria:

* musculoskeletal conditions that affected upper limb function prior to stroke
* concurrent use of anti-spasticity medications
* patients with neuromuscular junction or myopathic disorders such as myasthenia gravis or others
* patients with a known allergy to any onabotulinumtoxinA or to any of the excipients of onabotulinumtoxinA (such as human serum albumin)
* patients who are pregnant or may become pregnant at the time of the proposed injection

Where this trial is running

Tainan

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions StrokeSpasticityOnabotulinumtoxinA
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.