It's perfectly normal to sweat, especially under the arms, during periods of exercise, nerve-wracking situations and physical exertion. Individuals with overly active sweat glands may have a medical condition known as hyperhidrosis, according to the National Institutes of Health. The main symptom of hyperhidrosis is sweating, but perspiration may produce an offensive odor when it comes into contact with bacteria on the skin. Fortunately, a number of treatment options exist to help control underarm sweat.
Step 1
Use antiperspirant deodorant on your armpits at least once per day control sweating. Most over-the-counter products contain 10 to 15 percent aluminum chloride, which work to plug the sweat ducts. They are generally effective for mild to moderate underarm sweating. Contact your doctor if sweating persists. She may prescribe stronger solutions, such as Drysol or Xerac, which you apply at night.
Step 2
Apply doctor-prescribed anticholinergics drugs, such as glycopyrrolate (Robinul, Robinul-Forte) to your underarm once or twice per day. These medications may effectively inhibit the stimulation of sweat glands. Dissolve anticholinergics tablets in a 20 percent alcohol or a water-based solution of aluminum chloride hexahydrate. You will need to use anticholinergics on an ongoing basis to help control excessive underarm sweating and odor.
Step 3
Take beta-blockers (nebivolol or propranolol) or benzodiazepines (alprazolam or diazepam) as prescribed by your doctor. Beta-blockers can slow your heart rate, while benzodidazepines have calming effects that may help reduce stress-related underarm sweating.
Step 4
Talk to your doctor about undergoing underarm Botox treatments. The FDA has approved botulinum toxin type A (Botox) to treat acute underarm sweating. Schedule an appoint to receive small doses of purified botulinum toxin that are injected into the armpit. Botox will temporarily obstruct the nerves that fuel sweating for six months to a year.
