Topical Anticholinergics in the Management of Focal Hyperhidrosis in Adults and Children. A Narrative Review

Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, is characterized by overactivity of the eccrine sweat glands, usually associated with dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system. Primary focal hyperhidrosis is the most common form and can affect the axillae, palms, soles, and/or face, often leading to significantly impaired quality of life and social functioning. Treatment is complex. Topical antiperspirants are normally recommended as the first-line treatment for mild hyperhidrosis. Multiple clinical trials and prospective studies support the efficacy and tolerability of oral and topical anticholinergics in the management of hyperhidrosis. Topical glycopyrronium, which has been investigated in at least 8 clinical trials enrolling more than 2000 patients, is probably the first-line pharmacological treatment for axillary hyperhidrosis in patients with moderate to severe disease poorly controlled with topical antiperspirants. Second-line treatments include botulinum toxin injections, microwave treatment, and oral anticholinergics. We review the use of topical anticholinergics in the management of focal hyperhidrosis in adults and children.