The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended glycopyrronium bromide (GPB) cream, manufactured by axunio UK, for routine NHS use as a treatment for adults with severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis (PAHH).
Hyperhidrosis occurs when overactivity within the sympathetic nervous system causes excessive stimulation of sweat glands.
Severe PAHH is characterised by excessive sweating beyond what is required for normal temperature regulation.
Primary hyperhidrosis commonly begins during childhood or adolescence and may persist throughout life.
Studies suggest that between 25% and 50% of affected individuals have a family history of the condition.
It is estimated to affect between 1% and 5% of the population and can have a substantial impact on daily activities, but the condition remains under-recognised and under-diagnosed.
The GPB cream is designed to block the signalling pathway that activates the sweat glands, helping to reduce excessive sweating.
Patients can apply the cream themselves on affected areas and as a treatment it can be largely managed in primary care.
NICE estimates that approximately 75,000 people in England may be eligible for treatment with GPB cream.
The Managing Director of axunio, Richard Baderin, said: "Hyperhidrosis can have a profound impact on many aspects of daily life, yet treatment options have historically been limited.
"The NICE recommendation for GPB cream represents an important milestone for adults living with severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis and provides access to the UK's only licensed topical anticholinergic treatment for this condition."
