Sometimes, no matter how nicely we dress, it feels very uncomfortable when we sweat under our armpits and our clothes get wet, doesn't it? For some, this is more than normal. Due to this condition, some people are a little hesitant to socialize and wear the clothes they like. So today we are talking about a special medicine that is used to treat excessive sweating under the armpits.
What is Glycopyrronium?
Simply put, Glycopyrronium is a small, wet cloth soaked in medicine (topical wipe). The most common brand name for it is Qbrexza. It is used to treat a condition called axillary hyperhidrosis. It works by controlling the activity of our sweat glands. This means it is not something you take like a pill, but something you apply to the skin.
This helps reduce underarm sweating, helping you feel dry and refreshed throughout the day. However, this is not a one-size-fits-all solution. So it's important to be aware of this.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before prescribing Glycopyrronium to you, your doctor will need to know your complete health history. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
| Health status | Why is it important? |
|---|---|
| Difficulty urinating or bladder problems | This medication can increase urinary retention. |
| Glaucoma | This can be risky for glaucoma patients, as it can increase eye pressure. |
| Heart disease or irregular heartbeat | Heart rate can be affected. |
| Intestinal problems (e.g. Ulcerative Colitis) or stomach obstruction | Digestive system movements can be slowed down. |
| Kidney disease | Because it is excreted from the body through the kidneys, drug levels may increase if kidney function is impaired. |
| Autoimmune diseases such as Myasthenia Gravis or Sjogren's Syndrome | These symptoms can be exacerbated. |
| Allergies to glycopyrronium or other medicines, foods, or dyes | It is essential to inform this to prevent an allergic reaction. |
| Being pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | You should discuss the possible effects on the child with your doctor. |
How exactly do you use this?
To get the most out of this and minimize side effects, it is very important to use it as directed.
1. Topical only: This is for topical use only . Do not take by mouth for any reason.
2. Only once: Use the wipe from the packet to wipe one armpit only once . Then use the same wipe to wipe the other armpit once. Do not rub the same area repeatedly.
3. For clean skin: Use this when the skin under the armpits is clean and dry.
4. Do not apply to wounds: Do not apply this to cuts, scrapes, or other wounds on the skin. Doing so may cause irritation.
5. Keep out of eyes, nose, and mouth: Do not let this medicine get in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If it does, rinse immediately with water.
6. Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after use. If you don't, any remaining medicine on your hands may get into your eyes, causing blurred vision.
7. Do not apply bandages: Do not cover the area where the medicine was applied with a bandage or other dressings.
Most importantly: This medicine is for you only. Do not give this medicine to anyone else who has the same symptoms as your doctor prescribed it for you.
What if it is used for children?
Doctors may prescribe this for children over the age of 9 in some special cases. However, special care should be taken when doing so. If your child has been prescribed this, talk to your doctor carefully about how to use it.
Be careful with these things when using them.
- Blurred vision: Some people may experience blurred vision while using this medication. Therefore, do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
- Avoid extreme heat: This is very important. When you use Glycopyrronium, your body will sweat less. Sweating is a natural way for our body to regulate its temperature. So when you sweat less, if you go into a very hot environment (e.g., being in the sun, going to a sauna, or going to a hot tub), your body temperature can rise to dangerous levels. This is called heat stroke. So, stay away from extreme heat and strenuous exercise as much as possible.
- Dry mouth: It is common to experience dry mouth while taking this medication. Chewing sugar-free gum, sucking on sugar-free candy, and drinking plenty of water throughout the day may help. Tell your doctor if this problem persists or becomes severe.
What side effects are possible?
As with any medication, side effects can occur. Some are serious, some are common.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| 🚨 If any of these occur, call your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips, face or tongue. |
| Difficulty urinating | Pain during urination, no or scanty urine output. |
| Irregular heartbeat | Feeling like your heart is beating fast or irregularly. |
| 🙂 These are usually not serious, but if they persist, tell your doctor. | |
| Dry mouth | A commonly seen side effect. |
| Blurred vision | It can sometimes occur even if the medicine is not applied to the eyes. |
| Constipation | It may be caused by slow bowel function. |
| Headache | A general headache may occur. |
What if it is used incorrectly or excessively?
If you think you have used more than you should, or if someone accidentally ingested this, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Take-Home Message
- Glycopyrronium is a medicated topical cream that treats excessive underarm sweating.
- Before using this, tell your doctor about all medical conditions you have (especially glaucoma, heart disease, urinary problems).
- Follow the instructions exactly. Only use once per armpit. Wash your hands thoroughly after use.
- Avoid excessive heat during use, as sweating may decrease and body temperature may rise dangerously.
- Be aware of side effects like dry mouth and blurred vision. If you experience anything serious, such as allergic symptoms or difficulty urinating, seek medical advice immediately.
- Keep this medicine out of reach of children and fire, and store it safely at room temperature.
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