No more sweating: Botulinum toxin A against hyperhidrosis
Excessive sweating, medically known as hyperhidrosis, can have a significant impact on everyday life. Those affected not only suffer from visible patches of sweat and an unpleasant odor, but also from social insecurity and a reduced quality of life.
Effective treatment with
Botulinum toxin A
A particularly effective treatment option is the injection of botulinum toxin A (also known as Botox). At the Metropolitan Clinic Zurich, we offer this treatment on an outpatient basis – particularly for armpits, palms, and forehead.
Botulinum toxin A blocks the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine at the nerve endings, which inhibits the activity of the sweat glands. The effect usually sets in within three to seven days and lasts for an average of four to six months.
Scientific evidence and study situation
Several clinical studies confirm the high effectiveness of botulinum toxin A in the treatment of hyperhidrosis. Studies have shown that sweat production - particularly in the armpits - is significantly reduced after treatment. At the same time, many patients report a noticeable improvement in their quality of life.
Medical guidelines also confirm the effectiveness of this form of therapy. Intracutaneous injections of botulinum toxin A are considered one of the most effective methods for treating focal hyperhidrosis - i.e. where excessive sweating occurs locally, for example in the armpits, palms or forehead.
1 Heckmann et al, 2001 - New England Journal of Medicine
In a randomized, placebo-controlled study with 145 patients, botulinum toxin A was injected into one armpit while the other received a placebo. Two weeks after treatment, sweat production in the treated armpit decreased significantly from an average of 192 mg/min to 24 mg/min. The effect lasted for up to 24 weeks in many patients. 98% of participants would recommend the therapy to others. PubMed
2 Naumann & Lowe, 2001 - British Medical Journal
This multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled study with 320 patients showed that 94% of people treated with botulinum toxin A achieved a reduction in sweat production of at least 50% after four weeks, compared to 36% in the placebo group. The effect lasted for up to 16 weeks in 82% of those treated, and the treatment was well tolerated with only a few mild side effects. PMC
3 Lowe et al, 2007 - Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
In a 52-week, multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study with 322 patients, the efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin A in primary axillary hyperhidrosis was investigated. 75% of patients treated with 50 U or 75 U showed an improvement of 2 points on the Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale (HDSS), compared to 25% in the placebo group. The median duration of effect was 197 days (75 U) and 205 days (50 U).
Treatment procedure and safety
The treatment is virtually painless and only takes a few minutes. Before the injection, the area of skin to be treated is prepared with an anaesthetic to minimize any discomfort. After treatment, patients are usually able to return to social life and work immediately.
Conclusion
Botulinum toxin A injection offers an effective and safe method for treating hyperhidrosis. Those affected can benefit from a significant reduction in sweating and an improved quality of life. At the Metropolitan Clinic Zurich, we are here to support you with our medical expertise and targeted support to find the right treatment for you.