ATLA::Alternatives to Laboratory Animals

Volume 31, Number 6

Botulinum toxin testing in animals: the questions remain unanswered.

Michael Balls

FRAME, Russell & Burch House, 96-98 North Sherwood Street, Nottingham NG1 4EE, UK

SUMMARY

Questions are raised concerning the testing of botulinum toxin in animals, and the British Government's answers to Parliamentary Questions on this issue are reviewed, with an emphasis on the potential for reducing, refining and replacing the animal tests, which can involve substantial severity, and on the responsibility of the Home Office so see that the Three Rs approach is fully applied in this specific case.

Keywords: animal testing, botuflnum toxin, cosmetic testing, refinement alternatives, replacement alternatives, Three Rs