Rising concerns over botulinum toxin resistance highlighted at ASCEND panel

12 Sept 03:46 Key points summarised by AI

An ASCEND panel highlighted rising concerns over botulinum toxin immunoresistance, with 81% of surveyed consumers reporting declining treatment efficacy, a significant increase from previous years.
Patient behaviors, including increasing dosages, shortening treatment intervals, and 'clinic-hopping' for more frequent injections, are identified as key factors exacerbating the development of resistance.
Experts emphasized the critical role of toxin purity in mitigating immunogenicity, advocating for the use of pure botulinum toxin formulations and adherence to minimum effective doses.
The ASCEND consensus paper recommends promoting pure formulations, implementing screening and management protocols for declining efficacy, and ensuring transparent patient education about immunoresistance.
Prevention is paramount, as starting with or switching to a pure toxin early can avert long-term complications, given that developed resistance can be prolonged or potentially irreversible.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.