Excessive Sweat Management

Treatment for Excessive Sweating in Toronto

We offer various options for hyperhidrosis treatment at our Mississauga and Toronto Sweat Clinic, including:

• Topical treatments, such as topical Drysol or glycopyrrolate
• Iontophoresis
• Botulinum toxin type A (therapeutic BOTOX)
• Surgery
• Oral medications, including glycopyrrolate, Ditropan® and others

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments for excessive sweating in Toronto patients can include over-the-counter products containing aluminum chloride and alcohol, as well as prescription medications such as glycopyrrolate compounded in a topical formulation. Side effects can include skin irritation, and in the case of glycopyrrolate, dry mouth, constipation and urinary retention – though these side effects tend to be more of an issue when it is used orally. Typically, topical agents are limited in their benefit for patients with severe sweating.

Iontophoresis treatment involves soaking the area (usually hands or feet) in a water bath through which a low-grade electrical current is passed. It is effective in some individuals and is simple to use and inexpensive.

A multicenter trial of botulinum toxin type A injections concluded: “Intradermal injection of botulinum toxin A is an effective and safe therapy for severe axillary hyperhidrosis.” In addition: “98 percent of the patients in the study said they would recommend this therapy to others.”¹ Side effects can include some local bruising or swelling, and in rare cases an increase in sweating in another area. In the case of injections to the hands, mild transient weakness can be noted. For a more detailed discussion of side effects of BOTOX treatments in Toronto and Mississauga, see our page regarding prescription wrinkle injections.

Surgical Options

Surgical options can include sympathectomy (nerve cutting) for treatment of the hands or feet, or removal of sweat glands for underarm sweating. Side effects of surgery need to be discussed in detail before the procedure, since they can include such things as nerve damage and infection. Some people can develop compensatory increased sweating elsewhere, and in some cases, results are temporary and sweating returns.

Use of oral medication for focal sweat reduction is rare because of the potential side effects of medication. Oral medication is usually considered more in patients who have more generalized sweating or who have financial constraints. Again, side effects of these drugs include sedation, blurred vision, dry mouth, urinary retention and constipation.

The cost of hyperhidrosis treatment is often covered by private health insurance. Our sweat management specialists in Mississauga and Toronto can help you submit the required paperwork.

Request Your Consultation

For more information on treatment of excessive sweating in Mississauga and Toronto, book a consultation by calling our Mississauga clinic at (905) 273-3045or our Toronto clinic at (416) 207-9090, or request an appointment online.