Remission of facial and scalp hyperhidrosis with clonidine hydrochloride and topical aluminum chloride

Abstract

Axillary and palmar hyperhidrosis are featured prominently in the literature, but no previous studies have detailed a treatment regimen for specific excessive localized sweating of the face and scalp. In this report, a patient was treated for this condition with a combination of clonidine hydrochloride (0.3 mg to 0.4 mg, with 0.25 mg to be taken at bedtime, to prevent daytime sedation) [corrected] and a topical solution of 20% aluminum chloride in anhydrous ethyl alcohol (Drysol). Over a period of 2 or 3 weeks, the patient achieved a complete remission of symptoms, while having only mild side effects. The treatment regimen also had the added advantage of lowering generalized anxiety.