What therapies are available for hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)?

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From the Research

Hyperhidrosis can be effectively managed with various therapies, including topical antiperspirants, iontophoresis, botulinum toxin injections, oral anticholinergics, and surgical options, with the choice of treatment depending on the affected body area, severity, and patient preference. The most recent and highest quality study 1 suggests that initial treatment includes lifestyle and behavioral recommendations, and antiperspirants are regarded as the first-line therapy for primary focal hyperhidrosis. Some key points to consider when treating hyperhidrosis include:

  • Topical aluminum chloride solution is the initial treatment in most cases of primary focal hyperhidrosis, as stated in 2
  • Iontophoresis is the primary remedy for palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis, as mentioned in 1
  • Botulinum toxin injections are a safe and effective treatment option for focal hyperhidrosis, particularly effective for axillary and palmar hyperhidrosis, as noted in 3, 2, 1
  • Oral systemic agents, such as glycopyrrolate, are reserved for treatment-resistant cases or for generalized hyperhidrosis, as stated in 3, 2, 1
  • Surgical options, including endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) and local surgical removal of sweat glands, may be considered for severe cases unresponsive to other treatments, as mentioned in 3, 2, 1. It's essential to consider the affected body area, severity, and patient preference when choosing a treatment, and many patients may require combination therapy for optimal control, as noted in 3, 2, 1.

References

Research

Hyperhidrosis: Management Options.

American family physician, 2018

Research

Treatment options for hyperhidrosis.

American journal of clinical dermatology, 2011

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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