Linda A. Johnson
This undated image provided by Dermira Inc. shows the drug Qbrexz. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Qbrexza, the first drug developed to reduce excessive sweating, a common condition that can cause anxiety and damage self-esteem, social life, even careers. Maker Dermira Inc. said Friday, June 29, 2018, that its drug was approved for excessive underarm sweating. (Dermira Inc. via AP)
Republished June 29, 2018 - 8:38 AM
Original Publication Date June 29, 2018 - 7:56 AM
U.S. regulators on Friday approved the first drug developed specifically to reduce excessive sweating, a common condition that can cause people anxiety and affect their social lives.
The Food and Drug Administration approved Qbrexza for excessive underarm sweating and will be available in October. The drug is inside a cloth wiped over the skin daily to block sweat glands from activating.
Its manufacturer, Dermira Inc., refused to disclose the price, as drugmakers normally do.
An estimated 15.3 million Americans have some form of excessive sweating, but only 1 in 4 get treatment. Current treatment options include Botox injections, surgery to remove sweat glands, procedures using lasers and other devices, and drugs approved for other conditions that block the body's chemical messengers to reduce sweat production throughout the body.
Side effects of Qbrexza include blurred vision, constipation, burning and itchy skin, head and throat pain, and dry mouth, eyes and skin.
Dermira said in one study, 53 per cent of patients reported Qbrexza reduced sweat production by roughly half, versus 28 per cent in a comparison group using a nonmedicated cloth.
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News from © The Associated Press, 2018