Apirent

Indications

Aluminium Chloride Hexahydrate is a strong antiperspirant applied to the skin to treat excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) of the underarms, palms, soles of the feet and sometimes the scalp or face. It is used when ordinary deodorants and antiperspirants do not control the sweating. It may also help reduce sweat-related body odour.

How It Works

When applied to dry skin, the aluminium salt reacts with sweat and forms tiny plugs in the openings of the sweat ducts. These plugs block sweat from reaching the skin surface. With regular use the sweat glands also produce less sweat. The plugs are slowly shed with normal skin renewal, so the treatment needs to be repeated.

Dosage and Administration

Usually a 15% to 20% solution or roll-on is used. Apply a thin layer at night to completely dry skin, as sweat glands are least active then. Wash it off in the morning. Use it every night until sweating is controlled (often 1 to 2 weeks), then reduce to once or twice a week, or as directed on the label. Do not apply right after shaving or bathing; wait at least 24 to 48 hours after shaving and make sure the skin is fully dry. Wash hands after use.

Interactions

No important interactions with medicines are known. Avoid using other irritating skin products, such as other deodorants, perfumes or alcohol-based products, on the same area at the same time.

Contraindications

Do not use on broken, irritated, infected or freshly shaved skin, near the eyes or on mucous membranes, or if you are allergic to aluminium salts or any ingredient in the product.

Side Effects

• Burning, stinging, prickling or itching where it is applied.
• Skin redness, dryness or irritation.
• It may stain or damage some fabrics and metal jewellery.

Stop using it and get urgent medical help if you develop swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe, blistering or spreading rash.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Very little is absorbed through the skin, and it is generally considered acceptable on small areas. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, and do not apply it to the breast area while breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

For external use only. Keep away from the eyes; if contact occurs, rinse well with water. If irritation occurs, use it less often or wash it off sooner, and a mild hydrocortisone cream from a pharmacist may help; see a doctor if irritation continues. The solution contains alcohol and may be flammable. Sudden heavy sweating, night sweats or sweating with weight loss or fever should be checked by a doctor. Use in children only on medical advice.

Overdose

Using too much on the skin mainly causes more irritation; wash the area with water. If swallowed, rinse the mouth, drink water and seek medical advice.

Therapeutic Class

Topical antiperspirant (astringent).

Storage

Store below 30°C with the cap tightly closed, away from heat, flames and light, and out of the reach of children.