В NHS скоро появится новое средство от гипергидроза, снижающее потоотделение на 90%

Thousands of National Health Service (NHS) patients could soon get their hands on a new cream that can reduce excessive sweating by as much as 90 per cent. Axhidrox, which contains glycopyrronium bromide, is rubbed into the armpits and works by blocking nerve signals that tell sweat glands to produce perspiration. The treatment is set to become available to NHS patients who have exhausted other options in the coming months, making it the first UK treatment specifically designed for excessive underarm sweating. Around 2.8 million Brits are thought to suffer from hyperhidrosis, where people sweat excessively regardless of heat, exercise or stress. The condition is believed to be caused by faulty signals between the brain and sweat glands, with genetics thought to play a role in up to half of cases. Trials involving 518 patients found Axhidrox reduced sweating by an average of 65 per cent after 12 weeks of regular use. Around a third saw their perspiration drop by 75 per cent, while one in five experienced a staggering 90 per cent reduction. The benefits were found to continue for roughly a year. Unlike medical-grade antiperspirants, which work by forming a plug inside sweat glands but can cause stinging and irritation, Axhidrox targets the nerve signals responsible for sweating. Botox injections and antimuscarinic medicines are also sometimes used to treat hyperhidrosis. However, the condition can have a major impact on sufferers, with around three-quarters reporting that it damages their quality of life. People with hyperhidrosis are also twice as likely to experience anxiety and almost three times as likely to suffer depression. The cream can already be bought privately through online pharmacies for around £130. But it is not without risks. Reported side effects include skin reactions, dry mouth and eyes, constipation and blurred vision. The manufacturers, German company Axunio, also warn users to avoid contact with the eyes, mouth and nose. They advise stopping treatment immediately if swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, itching or rashes develop, as these could signal a serious allergic reaction. Meanwhile, scientists are continuing to investigate why some people sweat excessively. Research from Johns Hopkins University recently identified a genetic mutation that could be responsible for around one in five cases. Dr Malcolm Brock said: “We found that this mutation essentially turns up the volume on the nerve signals that stimulate sweating. “That insight gives us a specific target to pursue for future therapies.”