Oxybutinin for Treatment of Hyperhidrosis

Oxybutynin for Treatment Of Hyperhidrosis

Patient Information

Prosser White Dermatology Centre

• Author ID: AF 
• Leaflet ref: Derm 065
• Leaflet title: Oxybutynin for Treatment of Hyperhidrosis
• Version: 7
• Last review: August 2025
• Expiry Date: August 2027

Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is a condition where the patient suffers from excessive sweating. This usually affects the hands, feet, or underarms but it can be anywhere on the body or head.

For further information please ask for the Hyperhidrosis leaflet or access this via the website https://www.bad.org.uk/pils/hyperhidrosis/

Oxybutinin for treatment of Hyperhidrosis

Oxybutinin is normally used in the treatment of urinary problems.  It can also be useful in the treatment of excessive sweating. It is especially suitable for those who suffer generalised sweating, those unable to tolerate other treatments, or those who have the side effect of increased sweating after surgery.

Oxybutinin is not a cure and would need to be taken long term to keep your sweating under control.  Once you have been prescribed the medication, we would normally see you in clinic four to six weeks later to check that it is working and that you are not experiencing any side effects that you are unable to cope with. 

If you and the doctor are happy with the treatment, then we would ask your General Practitioner (GP) to take over your care and re-prescribe the treatment.  Most GPs are happy to do this.

However, should you or your GP feel you need reassessment, we would be happy to see you again.

Benefits

The benefits of this medication are that you should experience a reduction in sweating with few side effects.

Alternative

Alternative treatments for hyperhidrosis are antiperspirants, iontophoresis, other drugs, Botox and surgery.

Risks

Most medicines have side effects which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine.  The most common side effect of Oxybutinin is a dry mouth which will affect around 1 in 10 people.  Other less common side effects include: 

• Constipation
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness or blurred vision 
• Headache
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight
• Dry eyes and skin
• Flushing of the face 
• Difficulty in passing urine
• Skin rash
• Fast or fluttering heartbeat
• Diarrhoea 
• Feelings of restlessness or disorientation

Most people will not experience any of these side effects.  If you do, you can discuss them with the doctor at your next visit, or if they are very troublesome, contact the department before your next appointment.  This list is not exhaustive, and more information can be found on the drug information leaflet which comes with the medication or via the internet.

An allergic reaction is very rare.  If you experience swelling of the mouth or face or any difficulty in breathing or swallowing, you should get emergency medical help as soon as possible and stop the Oxybutynin.

Important information

• Oxybutynin should not be taken during pregnancy or by women who are breast feeding.  If you are, or wish to become pregnant, this should be discussed with your Consultant or GP 
• Oxybutynin is not known to react if taken with alcohol, however as when taking any drugs, alcohol should be consumed with caution
• You should inform your doctor of all tablets or medicines you are taking, including those bought over the counter and any complementary therapies.  Some that are known to interact with Oxybutinin are some antidepressants (monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) and tricyclics), antipsychotics and antihistamines
• Oxybutynin may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.  You should see how this medicine affects you before you judge whether you are safe to perform these tasks
• Diet – There are no specific foods that you must exclude from your diet when taking Oxybutinin

Contact information

If you have any concerns about this medicine or your condition, please contact us at the Dermatology Department by telephoning 01942 264748 or speak to your GP.