Aluminum Chloride Hexahydrate Deodorant/Aluminum Chloride compound with the chemical formula AlCl3; the anhydrous salt is used as a catalyst in organic chemical synthesis, and hydrated salts are used topically as antiperspirants, and for the management of hyperhidrosis.
Aluminum chloride is a chemical compound with the chemical formula AlCl3. When contaminated with iron chloride, it often displays a yellow color compared to the white pure compound. It is used in various chemical applications as a Lewis base, with anhydrous aluminum trichloride being the most commonly used Lewis acid. It may also be found in over-the-counter as an antiperspirant or prescription products as an antihemorrhagic agent. In antiperspirant products, the FDA approves the use of aluminum chloride as an active ingredient up to 15%, calculated on the hexahydrate form, in an aqueous solution nonaerosol dosage form.
Aluminum chloride (AlCl3), also known as aluminum trichloride, is the main compound of aluminum and chlorine. It is white, but samples are often contaminated with iron(III) chloride, giving it a yellow color. The solid has a low melting and boiling point. It is mainly produced and consumed in the production of aluminum metal, but large amounts are also used in other areas of the chemical industry. The compound is often cited as a Lewis acid. It is an example of an inorganic compound that reversibly changes from a polymer to a monomer at mild temperature.
Mechanism of Action of Aluminum Chloride
Aluminum chloride is commonly used topical antiperspirant. It is proposed that aluminum chloride works by causing obstruction of the distal sweat gland ducts, where the metal ions precipitate with mucopolysaccharides, damaging epithelial cells along the lumen of the duct and forming a plug that blocks sweat output. Aluminum chloride is also an astringent that promotes hemostasis; it precipitates proteins on the superficial layer of mucosa and makes it mechanically stronger. It creates superficial and local coagulation in minor hemorrhages.
Indications of Aluminum Chloride
- Hyperhidrosis
- Indicated for the control of minor hemorrhage during dental restorative procedures.
- Indicated to reduce underarm perspiration.
- Agents that are put on the SKIN to reduce SWEATING or prevent excess sweating (HYPERHIDROSIS)
Contraindications of Aluminum Chloride
- Known hypersensitivity to aluminum chloride hexahydrate or any ingredient in the formulation.
Dosage of Aluminum Chloride
Strengths: 20%
Hyperhidrosis
- axillary, Palmar, Plantar, or Craniofacial Hyperhidrosis
Topical
- Apply the solution to a completely dry affected area (e.g., underarms, palms, soles, scalp) once daily at bedtime.
- To minimize irritation when using the solution, let the alcohol evaporate (may use a hairdryer on cold setting when administered underarms); a thin film of the drug should remain on the skin.
- To prevent the drug from rubbing off, a cover treated area with a T-shirt for axillary application; use a plastic shower cap for scalp application or plastic wrap and overlying gloves or socks for palmar or plantar application, respectively. Do not use adhesive tape. Some clinicians state that occlusion is not necessary and may increase risk of skin irritation.
- After 6–8 hours (usually the following morning), remove garments and/or plastic wrap; to prevent irritation, wash treatment area(s) thoroughly with soap and water or shampoo. Some clinicians also suggest the topical application of sodium bicarbonate. Dry with a towel.
- Repeat applications for ≥2 consecutive nights until the desired effect (lack of sweating) achieved. Thereafter, may apply additional treatments once or twice weekly as needed.
- Self-medication for Axillary Hyperhidrosis
Topical
- Apply sparingly (i.e., a few strokes) to affected areas under each arm. Dry skin completely prior to application.
- Allow the solution to dry the following application.
- May repeat treatment until the desired effect achieved. Thereafter, apply every other day or as needed.
Side Effects of Aluminum Chloride
- Bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet
- behavior changes (e.g., aggression, rage, agitation, anxiety, paranoia)
- blurred vision
- dizziness
- pain in the head or upper neck. সহজ বাংলা: মাথাব্যথা।" data-rx-term="headache" data-rx-definition="Headache means pain in the head or upper neck. সহজ বাংলা: মাথাব্যথা।">headache
- constipation
- dizziness
- drowsiness
- fatigue
- loss of appetite
- trouble sleeping
- pounding in the ears
- rapid weight gain
- slow or fast heartbeat
- tingling of the hands or feet
- unusual weight gain or loss
Common
- change in frequency of urination
- confusion
- change in balance and coordination especially when walking
- fungal infection
- hallucinations (seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not actually there)
- high blood pressure
- signs of a blood clot in the arm or leg (pain when an area is touched or pressed. সহজ বাংলা: চাপ দিলে ব্যথা।" data-rx-term="tenderness" data-rx-definition="Tenderness means pain when an area is touched or pressed. সহজ বাংলা: চাপ দিলে ব্যথা।">tenderness, pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in the arm or leg)
- signs of depression (e.g., poor concentration, changes in weight, changes in sleep, decreased interest in activities, thoughts of suicide)
Interactions of Aluminum Chloride
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
Some products that may interact with this drug include
- deodorants,
- other antiperspirants,
- disulfiram,
- metronidazole,
- tinidazole.
Pregnancy Category of Aluminum Chloride
FDA Pregnancy Category C.
Pregnancy
The manufacturer of Drysol and Xerac AC states that there is no pregnancy category for these drugs; however, they recommend that the drug not be used in pregnant women.
Lactation
Keep preparations out of reach of children. Infants (especially preterm infants) and children may be at greater risk of aluminum exposure because of immature renal function.
References
