From the Research
Hyperhidrosis should be treated with antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride as the first-line therapy, followed by other treatment options such as iontophoresis, botulinum toxin injections, and oral medications, with lifestyle modifications complementing medical treatments. The treatment of hyperhidrosis involves a sequenced approach, starting with lifestyle and behavioral recommendations, and then progressing to medical therapies if needed 1. Some key points to consider in the treatment of hyperhidrosis include:
- Antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride are considered the first-line therapy for primary focal hyperhidrosis, and can provide significant benefit 1
- Iontophoresis is the primary remedy for palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis, and can be used in conjunction with topical aluminum chloride hexahydrate lotion 2
- Botulinum toxin injections are a safe and effective treatment option for focal hyperhidrosis, and can provide 4-6 months of relief 1, 2
- Oral medications such as glycopyrrolate and oxybutynin can be used to treat hyperhidrosis, but may cause side effects such as dry mouth and blurred vision 3, 4
- Lifestyle modifications such as wearing moisture-wicking fabrics, avoiding spicy foods and caffeine, and managing stress through relaxation techniques can complement medical treatments 1, 4 It's worth noting that the treatment of hyperhidrosis should be tailored to the individual patient's needs and characteristics, and may involve a combination of different therapies 5. In terms of the specific treatment options, the most recent and highest quality study suggests that botulinum toxin injections may be more effective than iontophoresis and topical therapy for the treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis 2. However, the choice of treatment will depend on the individual patient's circumstances, and should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional. Overall, the goal of treatment for hyperhidrosis is to reduce the symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life, and a sequenced approach using a combination of lifestyle modifications and medical therapies is often the most effective way to achieve this goal 1, 4.