Uses
What is topical aluminum chloride used for?
Topical aluminum chloride is commonly used as an antiperspirant to treat excessive sweating of the underarms, hands, or feet.
Topical aluminum chloride may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.
How does topical aluminum chloride work (mechanism of action)?
Topical aluminum chloride affects the cells that make sweat to prevent or reduce underarm sweating.
How is topical aluminum chloride supplied (dosage forms)?
Topical aluminum chloride is available as Aarica, Certain Dri Roll-On, Drysol, Duradry PM, Xerac AC, and generic topical aluminum chloride in the following dosage forms that are applied to the skin.
- 6.25% topical solution
- 12% topical solution
- 15% topical solution
- 20% topical solution
How should I store topical aluminum chloride?
Topical aluminum chloride should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F to 86 F (15 C to 30 C), for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place.
Side Effects
What are the most common side effects of topical aluminum chloride?
The most common side effects of topical aluminum chloride are rash and skin irritation. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.
There may be other side effects of topical aluminum chloride that are not listed here. Contact your healthcare provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.
What are the serious side effects of topical aluminum chloride?
While less common, the most serious side effects of topical aluminum chloride are described below, along with what to do if they happen.
Severe Allergic Reactions. Topical aluminum chloride can cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using topical aluminum chloride and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.
- Breathing problems or wheezing
- Racing heart
- Fever or general ill feeling
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
- Trouble in swallowing or throat tightness
- Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
- Stomach cramps
- Joint pain
Warnings & Precautions
Who should not use topical aluminum chloride?
Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use topical aluminum chloride products.
- Topical aluminum chloride
- Topical aluminum chloride hexahydrate
- Aarica
- Certain Dri Roll-On
- Drysol
- Duradry PM
- Xerac AC
- Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed
Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific topical aluminum chloride products they stock.
What should I know about topical aluminum chloride before using it?
Keep topical aluminum chloride out of the reach of children. If swallowed, call your healthcare provider or get medical help immediately.
Do not use on broken or irritated skin. Stop using topical aluminum chloride if an allergic reaction or irritation occurs.
Do not use topical aluminum chloride in or near your eyes. Wash your eyes thoroughly with water if the medicine comes in contact with them.
Do not use topical aluminum chloride right after after shaving or bathing. Apply only before bedtime because the medicine should be kept on the skin for 6 to 8 hours.
Do not apply other deodorants or antiperspirants while using topical aluminum chloride.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before using topical aluminum chloride?
Tell your healthcare provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if topical aluminum chloride is right for you.
Current and Past Health Conditions. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of the following.
- Kidney problems
- Skin problems or sensitive skin
Pregnancy. Tell your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should use topical aluminum chloride while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
Breastfeeding. Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should use topical aluminum chloride while breastfeeding.
Interactions
Does topical aluminum chloride interact with foods or drinks?
There are no known interactions between topical aluminum chloride and foods or drinks.
There are no known interactions between topical aluminum chloride and alcohol.
Does topical aluminum chloride interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?
There are no known interactions between topical aluminum chloride and other medicines. Always tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.
Overdose/Missed Dose
What should I do if I accidentally use too much topical aluminum chloride?
If you or someone else has used too much topical aluminum chloride, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.
What should I do if I miss a dose of topical aluminum chloride?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only use the next dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
Are you currently using Aluminum Chloride topical?
This survey is being conducted by the WebMD marketing sciences department.