Sir, – Your article on animal testing in Irish labs (Life Science, October 17th) referred to our product, Botox (botulinum toxin type A).
Botox is a trade mark and is not a generic word. It applies specifically to Allergan’s proprietary prescription-only medicine. Botox is approved for a number of uses, including some severe neurological conditions, where there are few effective alternatives.
Allergan has a validated and approved cell-based potency assay that is in widespread commercial use. It uses this cell-based test on all of the company’s botulinum toxin type A product sold within the European Union and North America, which has significantly reduced our need to conduct animal tests. In addition, we continue to work with health authorities from around the world to validate the cell-based test with the intention to replace the animal test wherever we can.
The cell-based test is specific to Allergan’s botulinum toxin type A products. However, we have published the test methodology in order to allow other manufacturers and researchers to develop their own specific assays. In these ways, Allergan continues to demonstrate our deep commitment to reducing, refining and replacing animal testing wherever possible. – Yours, etc,
JANET KETTELS,
Director, Corporate Affairs
& Public Relations
Allergan, Europe Africa &
the Middle East,
The Parkway,
Marlow,
Buckinghamshire,
England.