Xerac AC (aluminum chloride hexahydrate) is a topical antiperspirant that's used to treat hyperhidrosis, which is the medical term for excessive sweating. Xerac AC (aluminum chloride hexahydrate) is available as a liquid solution that's applied once a day before bedtime, then washed off in the morning. There isn't a generic version of this medication, and it requires a prescription from your provider. Possible side effects of Xerac AC (aluminum chloride hexahydrate) include itching and skin irritation.
Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
Xerac AC (aluminum chloride hexahydrate) is a topical skin product. While the exact way this medication works isn't known, it’s thought that the aluminum in the medication reacts with your body and forms a plug over the sweat ducts with the nearby skin cells. This lowers the amount of sweat that's released from your sweat ducts. The sweat glands open back up as new skin grows in the area.
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Applied directly to the affected area(s)
Works overnight as you sleep
Not available over-the-counter
Can stain or damage bed linen if medication rubs off during sleep
Can cause eye irritation if it contacts the eyes
Make sure to apply Xerac AC (aluminum chloride hexahydrate) to skin that's completely dry.
Xerac AC (aluminum chloride hexahydrate) contains alcohol, which can irritate your skin. Allow the alcohol to evaporate to lower the risk of irritation.
Don't apply Xerac AC (aluminum chloride hexahydrate) to irritated skin, broken skin, or recently shaved skin because this can cause redness, burning, or stinging.
Avoid getting Xerac AC (aluminum chloride hexahydrate) in your eyes. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, wash them with water.
Don't use other deodorants or antiperspirants while you're using Xerac AC (aluminum chloride hexahydrate).
Xerac AC (aluminum chloride hexahydrate) can be harmful to cotton fibers and certain metals. If you're applying Xerac AC (aluminum chloride hexahydrate) to your underarms, wear a shirt that you don't mind getting stained to prevent the medication from getting on bed linens.
Xerac AC (aluminum chloride hexahydrate) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Only use Xerac AC (aluminum chloride hexahydrate) on your skin. Avoid getting it in your eyes, because this could cause irritation. If Xerac AC (aluminum chloride hexahydrate) gets in your eyes, wash them thoroughly with water. If you accidentally swallow this medication, contact a poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 right away.
Xerac AC (aluminum chloride hexahydrate 6.25%): Make sure the area you're applying the medication is completely dry. The typical dose is to apply Xerac AC (aluminum chloride hexahydrate) to the affected areas at bedtime or as directed by your provider. Keep it on for 6 to 8 hours, then wash it off in the morning with soap and water.
Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
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Goh, C. L. (1990). Aluminum chloride hexahydrate versus palmar hyperhidrosis. Evaporimeter assessment. International Journal of Dermatology.
International Hyperhidrosis Society. (n.d.). Aluminum chloride.
Person & Covey, Inc. (n.d.). Xerac AC DOM 35cc.
Person & Covey, Inc. (2015). Safety data sheet: Xerac AC 35cc; Xerac AC 60cc.
Person and Covey. (2024). Xerac AC liquid [package insert]. DailyMed.
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