Alternatives to Drysol If You Can't Fill Your Prescription

Drysol (aluminum chloride hexahydrate 20%) is the most commonly prescribed topical treatment for hyperhidrosis — but what do you do when your pharmacy doesn't have it in stock? The good news is that there are several effective alternatives, ranging from other prescription medications to OTC options. Here's an honest breakdown of each one.

First: Other Aluminum Chloride Products (Same Drug, Different Brand)

Before switching to a different drug class entirely, ask your pharmacy if they stock other brands of aluminum chloride hexahydrate. Xerac AC (6.25%) and Hypercare (20%) contain the same active ingredient as Drysol. Hypercare at 20% is essentially equivalent to Drysol — your pharmacist or doctor may be able to substitute it directly.

Qbrexza (Glycopyrronium Cloth 2.4%) — Best for Underarm Sweating

Qbrexza is an FDA-approved prescription wipe for primary axillary (underarm) hyperhidrosis in patients aged 9 and older. Unlike Drysol, which physically plugs sweat ducts, Qbrexza works as an anticholinergic — it blocks the nerve signals that tell sweat glands to produce sweat. You apply one wipe to each underarm once daily.

Important caveats: Qbrexza costs approximately $580–$840 per month without insurance. Most insurance plans require that you first try and fail Drysol (aluminum chloride) before approving Qbrexza — so the path often goes: Drysol first, Qbrexza second. Side effects include dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, and constipation from anticholinergic activity.

Sofdra (Sofpironium 12.45% Topical Gel) — Newer Anticholinergic Option

Sofdra is a newer FDA-approved topical gel for primary axillary hyperhidrosis. Like Qbrexza, it's an anticholinergic, but it's a retro-metabolically designed molecule intended to reduce systemic absorption and associated side effects. It's applied once daily to the underarms. Similar to Qbrexza, most insurers require step therapy through aluminum chloride first.

Botulinum Toxin A (Botox) Injections — Best for Severe Cases

Botox injections are FDA-approved for severe axillary hyperhidrosis that has not responded to topical treatments. A dermatologist or other specialist injects small amounts of Botox into the underarm area. The procedure takes about 15–20 minutes and results last 4–6 months. It's highly effective but requires repeat in-office visits and costs roughly $1,000–$1,500 per session without insurance.

Oral Glycopyrrolate — Best for Whole-Body (Generalized) Sweating

Oral glycopyrrolate is an anticholinergic medication used off-label for hyperhidrosis. Unlike topical treatments, it works systemically — meaning it can reduce sweating across your entire body. It's significantly cheaper than Qbrexza, but systemic anticholinergic side effects (dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, difficulty urinating) are more pronounced. It requires a prescription and is not FDA-approved specifically for hyperhidrosis.

Certain Dri (OTC 12% Aluminum Chloride) — Best Bridge Option

Certain Dri is available over-the-counter and contains 12% aluminum chloride — lower than Drysol's 20%, but still significantly stronger than standard antiperspirants. For mild-to-moderate hyperhidrosis, Certain Dri can provide meaningful relief while you wait to fill your Drysol prescription. No prescription needed, available at most drugstores.

Iontophoresis — Best Non-Drug Option for Hands and Feet

Iontophoresis uses a mild electrical current to temporarily block sweat gland function. It's particularly effective for palmar (hand) and plantar (foot) hyperhidrosis and can be done at a dermatologist's office or with an at-home device. It requires consistent sessions (typically 2-3 per week initially) and is not effective for underarm sweating.

Which Alternative Is Right for You?

Underarm sweating: Qbrexza, Sofdra, or Botox injections

Sweaty hands or feet: Iontophoresis or Hypercare/Xerac AC brand alternatives

Whole-body sweating: Oral glycopyrrolate

Mild sweating or need a bridge: OTC Certain Dri (12% aluminum chloride)

Still want to try finding Drysol first? Read our guide on how to find Drysol in stock near you — or use medfinder to have pharmacies checked for you.