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Hyperhydrosis
Up to 1% of the population suffers from hyperhidrosis, a disorder of excessive sweating. Hyperhidrosis may become generalized because of a metabolic or endocrine disorder, but it is most often a localized phenomenon. Primary hyperhidrosis is localized to the palms or soles. Its cause is largely unknown, but can be triggered by emotional stress or heat. Gustatory facial hyperhidrosis (Frey's syndrome) is a related disorder that is usually a result of parotid gland removal or diabetes mellitus. In Frey's syndrome, abnormalities in the salivary reflex arc cause the patient to sweat instead of salivate when he or she smells or tastes food. Both primary and gustatory hyperhidrosis are treated similarly, usually with topical therapies.
One of the most popular treatments for hyperhidrosis is glycopyrrolate. Several studies have shown that glycopyrrolate (0.5% to 2%) is nearly 100% effective in controlling gustatory sweating. It was seen that a single application of 1% glycopyrrolate controlled sweating for an average of 3 days without producing adverse side effects.
Another treatment option is the use of aluminum chlorohydrate. Aluminum chlorohydrate has been proven in several clinical trials to be an effective anti-perspirant. Placebo-controlled studies have shown that aluminum chlorohydrate in alcohol or ethanol significantly reduces the symptoms of hyperhidrosis in 60%-100% of patients. About 50% of patients using aluminum chlorohydrate experience skin irritation due to acid formation. Skin irritation is minimized through the compounding of aluminum chlorohydrate in a salicylic acid gel base rather than alcohol.
One of the earliest topical therapies for hyperhidrosis was formaldehyde (5%-20%). Formaldehyde works by causing the formation of a keratin plug that blocks the sweat duct. However, chronic use of formaldehyde often causes staining of the skin and allergic sensitization.
Central Drugs offers the following formulations for Hyperhidrosis:
Aluminum Chlorohydrate 5% and 10% Topical Antiperspirant Cream |
Aluminum Chlorohydrate 5% Topical Powder |
Aluminum Chlorohydrate 7.7% Topical Paste |
Formaldehyde Roll-on Deodorant |
Glycopyrrolate 0.25%/ Tea Tree Oil 2.5% Anti-perspirant |
Glycopyrrolate 1% Cream |
Methenamine 5% Clear Lotion/ Gel |
Methenamine 5% Deodorant Stick |
Methenamine 5%/ Benzalkonium Chloride 2% |
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