What are the other treatments for hyperhidrosis?
• Aluminium chloride (‘Driclor’) is the active ingredient of some anti-perspirants. It is used in stronger solutions to treat hyperhidrosis. treatment consists of applying the medication overnight using a roller-ball applicator and then washing it off in the morning. The effect lasts approximately 48 hours. • Iontophoresis is the passage of a weak electrical current through a water bath (or ‘electrogalvanic’ bath). The area affected by sweating is immersed in water and electrically chared particles (ions) block the activity of sweat glands. the effects can last for up to 12 weeks, though this is highly variable and some patients report results lasting just a few days. • Antimuscarinic drugs reduce the activity of the nerves supplying the sweat glands. As these drugs affect the entire nervous system, side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness and constipation can be troublesome. • Beta-blocker drugs or anxiolytics (tranquilisers) may help if sweating is made worse by stress and feelings
