Efficacy and Safety of Topical 2% Glycopyrrolate in the Treatment of Facial Hyperhidrosis

Abstract

Background: Facial hyperhidrosis is a frequent complaint characterized by excessive sweating which usually affects the forehead bilaterally but can also involve other regions of the face such as the scalp, nose, chin and less frequently cheeks. The topical application of 2% glycopyrrolate is safe, efficacious, well tolerated and convenient method in the treatment of facial hyperhidrosis.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy, safety and tolerability of topical 2% glycopyrrolate in the treatment of facial hyperhidrosis.

Patients Methods: This clinical trial was conducted in the Outpatient Clinics of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University Hospitals. Twelve patients suffering from primary facial hyperhidrosis were included in this study. They were treated by topical glycopyrrolate gel 2%. Each patient applied the test product to the area affected in their faces once a day for 9 days. Response to treatment was evaluated by starch iodine test. Patient’s satisfaction level and adverse effects were also evaluated. Follow up evaluation was done for detection of any recurrence.

Results: 9 patients (75%) showed complete response and 2 patients (16.7%) showed partial response. Only one patient showed no response to topical glycopyrrolate 2% after 10 days of treatment. The improvement was lost in 8 patients (66.7%) on the 3rd day of stoppage of treatment and on the next day of stoppage of treatment among 3 patients (25%).

Conclusion: Topical glycopyrrolate 2% is safe, efficacious, well tolerated and convenient method in the treatment of facial hyperhidrosis with minimal, transient and well-tolerated side effects.