Clinical studies of sweat rate reduction by an over-the-counter soft-solid antiperspirant and comparison with a prescription antiperspirant product in male panelists.

BACKGROUND Individuals with axillary hyperhidrosis have much higher than average sweat rates and are often prescribed anhydrous aluminum chloride (AlCl(3)) solutions. Topical application of these solutions can be irritating to the skin, resulting in poor compliance and lower than desired efficacy. OBJECTIVE Demonstrate the efficacy of an over the counter "clinical strength" soft-solid antiperspirant using a night time application regimen and compare to a prescription aluminum chloride (6.5%) antiperspirant using male panelists. METHODS Gravimetric hot room efficacy testing (100 F and 35% Humidity) was performed comparing an over the counter soft-solid antiperspirant to placebo in a single test. Two separate gravimetric tests were placed comparing a prescription aluminum chloride (6.5%) antiperspirant to the same soft solid product using an intent to treat model. Skin irritation was assessed daily by a trained grader. RESULTS Placebo testing resulted in 85% of panelists having a reduction in sweating rate greater than 50%. Comparison testing showed the over the counter soft solid reduced sweat rate by an average of 34% better than the prescription product while resulting significantly less skin irritation. CONCLUSIONS Over the counter "clinical strength" soft-solid antiperspirants can be considered as an alternative treatment to aluminum chloride antiperspirants for the treatment of heavy sweating.