Systemic Medications

Anticholinergic medications are sometimes effective in hyperhidrosis but the dosages required to reduce sweating can cause unpleasant side effects such as, dry mouth, bloating, sensitivity to light and urinary retention. Most patients with hyperhidrosis cannot tolerate them for long.

Some medications such as sedatives and tranquilizers may be of benefit for stress related hyperhidrosis and for hyperhidrosis of the palms and soles of the feet. But again, these agents carry a risk of adverse effects.

The use of calcium channel blockers, beta-blockers and other cardiovascular medications, such as clonidine can be effective in some patients. Talk to your physician to see if these are right for you.

One of the dangers of using systemic medications to block the sweating reflex is the increased risk of heat related problems in warm weather. If your body cannot sweat, it is very difficult to lower the core body temperature and heat stroke can occur.