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Overview: Topical aluminum chloride is used to treat excessive sweating. The most common side effects are rash and skin irritation. Your skin should be clean and completely dry before you apply this medicine to the affected area of your skin. Do not use on skin that is recently shaved, irritated, or broken. Read and follow all instructions on the product label.

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 health care provider.

How does topical aluminum chloride work (mechanism of action)?

Topical aluminum chloride works by temporarily blocking sweat glands. This helps to prevent or reduce sweating.

How is topical aluminum chloride supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Aarica
  • Certain Dri Roll-On
  • Drysol
  • Duradry
  • Xerac AC

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 6.25%, 12%, 15%, 20% topical solution

How should I store topical aluminum chloride?

Topical aluminum chloride should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F and 77 F (20 C and 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F and 86 F (15 C and 30 C), for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place. Keep this medicine away from any open flames.

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 health care 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 health care 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 (800-332-1088). 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 swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching or skin rash
  • Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
  • 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.

  • Aluminum chloride
  • Aluminum chloride hexahydrate
  • Aarica
  • Certain Dri Roll-On
  • Drysol
  • Duradry
  • Xerac AC
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product

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 health care provider or get medical help right away.

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 on skin that is wet or right after after shaving. 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 health care provider before using topical aluminum chloride?

Tell your health care 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 know if topical aluminum chloride is right for you.

Current and Past Health Conditions. Tell your health care provider if you have any of the following.

  • Kidney problems

  • Skin problems or sensitive skin

Pregnancy. Tell your health care provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. Your health care provider will let you know if you should use topical aluminum chloride while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Breastfeeding. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your health care provider will let you know 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 health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

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, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the usual time. Do not use double or extra doses.