A composition for topical application of a botulinum toxin (includingbotulinum toxin derivatives) comprises a botulinum toxin and a carriercomprising a polymeric backbone comprising a long-chain polypeptide ornonpeptidyl polymer having attached positively charged branching or"efficiency" groups. The invention also relates to methods for reducing muscleparalysis and other conditions that may be treated with a botulinum toxin,particularly paralysis of subcutaneous, and most particularly, facial,muscles, by topically applying an effective amount of the botulinum toxin andcarrier, in conjunction, to the subject's skin or epithelium. Kits foradministration are also described.
