Hyperhidrosis: Survey of the Cutis Editorial Board
Leading dermatologists from the Cutis Editorial Board answered 5 questions on hyperhidrosis. See what they’re recommending for their patients and why. Find the infographic here.
When prescribing systemic anticholinergics for hyperhidrosis, what side effect is most common among your patients?
More than three-quarters of dermatologists (81%) reported that dry mouth is the most common side effect of systemic anticholinergics. Dry eyes is the second most common side effect (15%).
Expert Commentary
Provided by Shari R. Lipner, MD, PhD (New York, New York)
Systemic anticholinergics are commonly used off label for the treatment of hyperhidrosis. Adverse effects include dry mouth, blurred vision, dry eyes, orthostatic hypotension, gastrointestinal, urinary retention, tachycardia, and drowsiness. Unfortunately, these side effects cause one-third of patients to discontinue treatment (Bajaj and Langtry). A slow escalation of the dose may increase tolerability and reduce these side effects. These anticholinergics should not be taken with other medications with anticholinergic activity to avoid exacerbating these side effects.
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