Yes, Botox can treat hyperhidrosis, excessive sweating

Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating is an indication for Botox.  It is injected into the area of increased sweating and lasts ~4 to 6 months before wearing off.

Botox, or botulinum toxin type A, was approved by the FDA in 2004 for the treatment of severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm sweating) that is inadequately managed with topical agents. Botox can also be used for excess sweating in other areas, though this is technically an off-label use.

Currently, in the United States, botulinum toxin type A is marketed only by Allergan Corporation under the name Botox and Botox Cosmetic. Some insurance companies will reimburse the cost for Botox injections for hyperhidrosis. Though Botox and Botox Cosmetic are the same compound, if insurance reimbursement is being sought, it is imperative that Botox and not Botox Cosmetic be used.

For axillary hyperhidrosis, definition of the area to be injected is performed first. This can be done in several ways. Once the area is defined, the recommended starting dose is 50 units per axilla.

According to Allergan the most common side effects included injection site pain and hemorrhage, non-axillary sweating, infection, pharyngitis, flu syndrome, headache, fever, neck or back pain, pruritis, and anxiety.

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