New medication for hyperhidrosis

There are several new medications that have been approved or are in development for the treatment of hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). Here are a few examples:

  1. Glycopyrrolate: In 2020, the FDA approved glycopyrrolate (Qbrexza) as a topical treatment for primary axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating of the underarms). It is a non-selective muscarinic receptor antagonist that works by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that stimulates sweat glands.
  2. Iontophoresis: Iontophoresis is a non-invasive, non-systemic treatment that uses a low-level electrical current to temporarily shut down sweat glands. It has been approved for the treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating of the hands) and plantar hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating of the feet).
  3. Botulinum Toxin Type B: Botulinum toxin type B (Myobloc) is a neurotoxin that has been approved for the treatment of cervical dystonia, a neurological disorder that causes abnormal head movements. It has also been used off-label to treat hyperhidrosis, particularly palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis.
  4. Capsaicin: Capsaicin is a natural ingredient found in chili peppers that has been shown to reduce sweating. It is available over-the-counter in various forms, including creams, sprays, and patches.
  5. Bimatoprost: Bimatoprost (Lumigan) is a medication that is commonly used to treat glaucoma. It has also been shown to reduce sweating in some studies, and is being investigated as a potential treatment for hyperhidrosis.
  6. Anticholinergics: Anticholinergics, such as oxybutynin (Ditropan) and tolterodine (Detrol), are medications that are commonly used to treat overactive bladder. They have also been used off-label to treat hyperhidrosis, particularly axillary and palmar hyperhidrosis.
  7. Sodium channel blockers: Sodium channel blockers, such as mexiletine (Mexitil), are medications that are commonly used to treat abnormal heart rhythms. They have also been shown to reduce sweating in some studies, and are being investigated as a potential treatment for hyperhidrosis.

It's important to note that these medications may have side effects, and their effectiveness may vary from person to person. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment for hyperhidrosis.