Robinul for excessive sweating: Is it right for you?
There is nothing worse than unwanted sweat. Even though sweating is a natural process, some people sweat in excess. “You can say your body’s cooling system is working over time, but it’s more than that,” says Dr. Miriam Hanson, board certified dermatologist in Austin, Texas. “Sweating can be a response to stress, awkward situations, and more. It is embarrassing and uncomfortable.” Dr. Hanson often see patients with excess sweating, a medical condition called Hyperhidrosis, but also treats sales people, patients getting married, people worried that sweating can effect their big day. One medication commonly used for excessive sweating is called Robinul, or glycopyrrolate.
What is it?
Robinul is considered an anticholinergic medication. It was originally designed to treat stomach ulcers because it’s job is to reduce secretions of certain organs in the body. It is sometimes used before surgery to protect against side effects of other medicines and to block certain reflexes in the body.
How does it work?
Robinul works by reducing the secretions in the body, sweat being one of them. It also reduces saliva, secretions in your nose and stomach. “When given for sweating, patients are typically prescribed either 1mg or 2mg orally two to three times daily until the sweating is under control,” explains Emily Johnston, certified physician assistant at Sanova Dermatology. The medication is usually started at a lower dose and slowly increased until therapeutic levels are achieved. Because dosages vary depending on the patient, you should never take it without a medical professional’s supervision.
Is it effective?
When antiperspirants don’t cut it, Robinul is being prescribed more and more to treat unwanted sweating and patients are finding it to be extremely effective. “The greatest drawback to Robinul are the side effects,” says Dr. Hanson. “Thankfully, other treatments like Botox injections and miraDry can be used to drastically reduce unwanted sweat if patients cannot tolerate the medication.”
What are the side effects?
Just like with any medication, there are possible side effects. Here are some of the most common side effects for Robinul.
- headache, dizziness, lightheadedness
- dry mouth
- blurred vision
- urinary hesitancy and retention
- constipation, nausea, bloated feeling or vomiting
- abnormal or fast heartbeats
- nervousness or mental confusion
- drowsiness
- weakness
- insomnia
Before taking Robinul, discuss the pros and cons with your physician to determine if it is the right medication for you. As mentioned, you will need to be monitored for the right dosage and to watch for side effects that may be problematic.
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