Topical atropine sulfate for the treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis

J Cosmet Dermatol. 2006 Dec;5(4):294-6. doi: 10.1111/j.1473-2165.2006.00273.x.

Abstract

Background: Axillary hyperhidrosis does not have a low-cost, free of secondary effects, satisfactory treatment. Eccrine hidrocystomas have been successfully treated with topical atropine solution. Hypothesis Axillary hyperhidrosis could respond to the topical application of atropine solution.

Methods: Ten patients were selected. Eight with mild pure primary axillary hyperhidrosis and two with compensatory sweating after sympathectomy. One milliliter of a water solution of atropine sulfate at 1% was applied twice a day over the affected area and massaged for 30 s. Treatment was maintained for 15 days. The results were rated using a scale from 1 to 10 of satisfaction.

Results: Only 2 of the 10 treated patients responded partially to the topical application of atropine sulfate. No local or systemic secondary effects were observed.

Conclusions: The results of the study demonstrated that focal hyperhidrosis does not improve after the local application of anticholinergic drugs such as atropine sulfate.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial

MeSH terms

  • Abdomen
  • Administration, Cutaneous
  • Atropine / administration & dosage
  • Atropine / therapeutic use*
  • Axilla
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperhidrosis / drug therapy*
  • Male
  • Muscarinic Antagonists / administration & dosage
  • Muscarinic Antagonists / therapeutic use*
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Treatment Failure

Substances

  • Muscarinic Antagonists
  • Atropine