New treatment no longer ignores degree of severity and affected region.
Until recently the treatment of hyperhidrosis (the medical term for a condition associated with excess sweat production) has ignored the severity and region of the condition.
Available treatments were based principally on 'shot gun' approaches.
In other words, all topically applied products were similar in terms of potency or strength.
Essentially, only one high-strength formulation was used regardless of the severity and region of the condition.
This is a relatively antiquated or primitive way of treating a condition.
One of the principles of medical therapeutics is based on treating a condition with to the lowest effective dose.
In the medical community we often refer to the notion of 'start low, go slow'.
Makes good sense - why treat with a larger dose than what is truly required.
For example, in the treatment of high blood pressure, a low dose of antihypertensive is usually initiated while the response to treatment is monitored.
If the blood pressure remains high, the dose is increased until a desired effect is obtained.
Another principle involves the idea of targeting therapy.
In the treatment of focal or localized hyperhidrosis (not to be confused with generalized or 'whole body' hyperhidrosis), the involved regions are not all the same.
Treatment of the underarms should not be treated with the same approach used for the soles of the feet or the palms of the hands.
After all, the underarm region is a lot more sensitive than are the soles and palms.
Treating according to well established guidelines.
A panel of experts (Canadian Hyperhidrosis Advisory Committee - CHAC) were convened a few years ago and developed a consensus statement using an evidence-based approach.
The findings from these treatment guidelines indicate that topically applied products are considered first-line approaches.
In other words, topical treatments (in particular, those containing aluminum chloride hexahydrate) should be used first before resorting to more expensive and invasive approaches (e.
g.
injections, surgery, iontophoresis).
The guidelines also support the notion that hyperhidrosis be treated based on the severity of an individual's condition and the particular region that is affected.
This is a much more individualized approach resulting in a more optimal treatment.
As such, individuals can now 'tailor' their treatment based on the specific needs of their condition.
A topical gel called DryDerm has recently been introduced which provides individuals the opportunity to treat their condition according to guidelines.
DryDerm is available in six different strengths (10,15, 20, 25, 30 and 35%) and allows users to treat with the concentration that best suites their condition.
For example, if the condition is affecting the facial area, users should start with a 10% formulation.
If treatment is not satisfactory, DryDerm can be stepped up to the 15% version (up to 20%).
The palms and soles are less sensitive and are treated initially with the 20% strength which can subsequently be stepped up to 25% (up to 35%).
This approach essentially targets therapy and helps to minimize local side effects.
So, whether your condition is mild, moderate or severe and whether the affected region is your underarms, face, soles or palms, this product is unique in offering the flexibility to treat with just the right amount of active ingredient.
Simple, logical and more importantly, good medicine.