Hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating

Medications.

Anticholinergic medications have variable success in treating hyperhidrosis. Glycopyrolate (Robinul) is started at 1-2mg one to three times per day but generally patients need higher doses to have adequate results.

Unfortunately at high doses these medications have severe side effects such as excessive dryness of the mouth (cotton mouth), constipation, urinary retention, and blurry vision. Other side effects include memory impairment and reflex tachycardia.

Other anticholinergic medications such as Propentheline Bromide (Probanthine) and Oxybutynin (Ditropan) may also be used orally. However topical application of anticholinergic medications is usually not successful due to poor absorption by the skin.

Propranolol is a beta-blocker that has generalized anti sympathetic activity. It has been used to treat stress-induced hyperhidrosis, however it’s side effects include general tiredness, slow heart rate and low blood pressure.

Herbal medication, biofeedback, acupuncture, and hypnosis have also been used to treat hyperhidrosis. Unfortunately, these have limited success in treating hyperhidrosis.