TO KNOW MORE

What is Botox®?

Botox® is a derivative of the botulism toxin but in small amounts, and injected into the right places, can be used safely. It is produced from spore forming bacillus Clostridium botulinum. The way it works is by blocking the neurotransmitter responsible for sweat production. A new product by the name of Myobloc is also available for the treatment of focal hyperhidrosis especially axillary hyperhidrosis (armpit sweating). Basically this is a different name for the same product. It is based on certain toxins produced by bacteria and perfected for the use in cases of hyperhidrosis.

Botox® with Hyperhidrosis:

With regard to effectiveness of Botox® for hyperhidrosis it should be remembered that Botox® has a limited and temporary effect. Repeated injections will increase the bodies resistance to the material. It is more effective in cases of armpit sweating (axillary) and less in cases of palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis. Another drawback may be the cost which is typically several hundred dollars for each treatment. In order to offset the price patients can try and ask for insurance coverage.

Excessive sweating can be the consequence of certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, menopause, anxiety disorder, neurotrauma injury, etc. The great majority of cases of excessive sweating are of idiopathic origin, i.e. without specific known cause. However, it is generally believed to be of some hereditary origin. Approximately 3% of the general population is affected by hyperhidrosis and 30% have a family history.

Hyperhidrosis has direct consequences on people’s lives. Extensive studies conducted on 320 patients have shown that:

55% had moderate limitations in the workplace

48% had major limitations in the workplace

20% could not pursue a specific career

71% lacked self-confidence

48% were unhappy and depressed

15% took antidepressants

25% deliberately avoided going out with family or friends due to embarrassment

HYPERHIDROSIS TREATMENTS

There are several treatments to treat hyperhidrosis. During the consultation, Dr Philippe Hamida-Pisal will decide if the treatment offered at our clinics is best for you.

The offered treatment works by blocking the triggering of the messenger responsible for sweating. Thus, when the body sends a nervous signal to the sweat glands to start sweating, the injected agent stops this signal, preventing hyperhidrosis.

A simple and efficient treatment 

The injections are not painful and are very well tolerated. It should be noted that it takes 2 to 10 days to notice a decrease in sweating.

Its impact on the client’s quality of life is often very obvious.

Schedule a treatment every 5 to 6 months.

Is this the solution for me?

After evaluating the importance and origin of your problem, Dr Philippe Hamida-Pisal can suggest various solutions or treatments for sweat management.