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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Other
Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly is a topical antiperspirant agent used to reduce underarm wetness. It belongs to the class of aluminum-zirconium salts and works by forming temporary plugs in the sweat ducts.
Name
Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly
Raw Name
ALUMINUM ZIRCONIUM TETRACHLOROHYDREX GLY
Category
Other
Drug Count
268
Variant Count
380
Last Verified
February 17, 2026
About Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly
Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly is a topical antiperspirant agent used to reduce underarm wetness. It belongs to the class of aluminum-zirconium salts and works by forming temporary plugs in the sweat ducts.
Detailed information about Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly
References used for this content
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication containing Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly.
Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly is a coordination complex used primarily as an active ingredient in over-the-counter (OTC) antiperspirant products. It belongs to a class of inorganic salts known as aluminum-zirconium complexes. The 'Gly' in its name refers to glycine, which is added as a buffering agent to stabilize the compound and prevent it from becoming too acidic, which could irritate the skin or damage clothing. According to the FDA OTC Antiperspirant Monograph, this ingredient is recognized as safe and effective for reducing axillary (underarm) hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) when used as directed.
The mechanism of action for Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly involves the formation of physical obstructions within the eccrine sweat glands. When the product is applied to the skin, the acidic salt dissolves in the moisture (sweat) present on the skin surface. As the pH of the solution rises upon contact with the skin and perspiration, the aluminum and zirconium ions precipitate, forming a gel-like polymer plug. This plug temporarily blocks the sweat duct, preventing the release of fluid to the skin surface. Over time, these plugs are naturally shed through the skin's normal exfoliation process or washed away during bathing.
Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly is FDA-approved for the following indications:
This active ingredient is found in various topical formulations, typically in concentrations ranging from 15% to 20%:
> Important: Only your healthcare provider can determine if Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly is appropriate for your specific skin condition or if a prescription-strength alternative is required.
For adults and adolescents (12 years and older), Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly is typically applied once daily. Healthcare providers often recommend applying the product at bedtime, as sweat production is lowest during sleep, allowing the plugs to form more effectively within the ducts.
Use in children under the age of 12 should be discussed with a pediatrician. While generally safe, the FDA recommends that parents consult a doctor before using antiperspirants on young children to ensure the symptoms are not related to an underlying medical condition.
Patients with severe renal impairment (kidney disease) must exercise extreme caution. The FDA requires a specific warning on labels for these individuals because the kidneys are responsible for clearing absorbed aluminum. If kidney function is significantly reduced, there is a theoretical risk of aluminum accumulation in the body.
No dosage adjustments are required for patients with liver disease, as the drug is not metabolized by the liver.
No specific dosage adjustments are required for elderly patients, provided their renal function is within an acceptable range for their age.
If a daily application is missed, apply it as soon as remembered, or wait until the next scheduled application. Do not apply an excessive amount to make up for a missed dose.
Systemic overdose from topical application is highly unlikely. If the product is accidentally ingested, contact a Poison Control Center or seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms of ingestion may include gastrointestinal distress or nausea.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions. Do not adjust your frequency of use without medical guidance.
> Warning: Stop using Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these:
There is no conclusive clinical evidence linking the long-term topical use of Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly to systemic diseases such as Alzheimer's or breast cancer. However, chronic local irritation may lead to persistent skin sensitivity or changes in skin texture.
There are currently no FDA black box warnings for Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly. However, the FDA-mandated warning for patients with kidney disease is a critical safety consideration.
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider.
Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly is for external use only. It should never be ingested or applied to mucous membranes. Users should be aware that the efficacy of the product may take several days of consistent use to reach its peak as the sweat duct plugs are established.
No FDA black box warnings for Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly.
Routine lab tests are generally not required for healthy individuals using OTC antiperspirants. However, patients with stage 4 or 5 kidney disease may require monitoring of serum aluminum levels if they use large quantities of aluminum-containing products over long periods.
There are no known effects of this topical medication on the ability to drive or operate heavy machinery.
There are no known direct interactions between topical Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly and alcohol consumption.
If you stop using the product, the antiperspirant effect will gradually diminish over 2 to 7 days as the plugs are naturally cleared from the sweat ducts. No tapering is required.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, especially kidney function, with your healthcare provider before starting Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly.
There are no systemic medications that are strictly contraindicated with the topical use of Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly. However, it should not be used simultaneously with other topical medications on the same area of skin unless directed by a doctor.
There are no known food interactions with this topical medication. Systemic absorption is too low for dietary factors to influence its efficacy or safety.
No significant interactions with herbal supplements or vitamins have been documented for the topical route of administration.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, especially other topical treatments.
Patients who react to Aluminum Chlorohydrate may also show sensitivity to Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly, as both utilize aluminum ions as the primary active agent.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including kidney function, before recommending Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly.
Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when applied topically to the underarms. Data from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggests that topical aluminum salts do not pose a significant risk to the developing fetus due to their negligible systemic absorption. However, pregnant individuals should consult their doctor before starting any new medication.
It is unlikely that Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly passes into breast milk in any significant quantity. When applied to the underarms, the risk to a nursing infant is considered very low. Care should be taken to ensure the infant does not come into direct contact with the applied area.
Safety and effectiveness in children under 12 years of age have not been established through rigorous clinical trials. Use in this population should be guided by a pediatrician. Parents should monitor for signs of skin irritation in younger users.
Clinical studies have not identified significant differences in response between elderly and younger patients. However, elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function; therefore, the warning regarding kidney disease is particularly relevant for this demographic.
Patients with a GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate) of less than 30 mL/min should consult a physician. While the risk of aluminum toxicity from antiperspirants is low, the theoretical risk of accumulation in bone and brain tissue exists in the absence of adequate renal clearance.
No adjustments are necessary for patients with hepatic impairment, as the drug's clearance does not involve the liver.
> Important: Special populations, particularly those with kidney disease, require individualized medical assessment.
Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly functions as an astringent and antiperspirant. At the molecular level, the complex reacts with the electrolytes in sweat to form a polymeric gel. This gel creates a physical plug within the terminal portion of the eccrine sweat gland ducts (the acrosyringium). This prevents the expulsion of sweat onto the skin surface. The presence of zirconium increases the efficacy of the plug compared to aluminum-only salts.
The onset of action typically occurs within minutes of application as the gel forms. However, the maximum reduction in perspiration is usually observed after 2 to 3 days of consecutive daily use. The duration of effect can last from 24 to 48 hours, depending on the concentration and formulation.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | <0.01% (Topical) |
| Protein Binding | N/A (Negligible systemic levels) |
| Half-life | N/A (Topical action) |
| Tmax | N/A |
| Metabolism | None |
| Excretion | Renal (for absorbed fraction) |
Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly is classified as an inorganic aluminum-zirconium salt. It is categorized therapeutically as a topical antiperspirant and astringent.
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Common questions about Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly
Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly is primarily used as an active ingredient in over-the-counter antiperspirants to reduce underarm sweating. It is effective for managing hyperhidrosis, a condition characterized by excessive perspiration beyond what is necessary for body temperature regulation. By reducing moisture, it also helps to minimize the environment where odor-causing bacteria thrive, thus helping to control body odor. It is found in various forms, including sticks, gels, and roll-ons. Most healthcare providers consider it a first-line treatment for mild to moderate underarm wetness.
The most frequently reported side effects are localized to the area of application and include skin irritation, redness, and a mild stinging sensation. These symptoms often occur if the product is applied to skin that has been recently shaved or is otherwise sensitive. Some users may also notice temporary dryness or itching in the underarm area. If a persistent rash or severe itching develops, it may indicate a contact allergy, and use should be discontinued. Most side effects are mild and resolve quickly once the product is washed off.
There are no known contraindications or interactions between the topical use of Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly and the consumption of alcohol. Because the ingredient is applied to the skin and has extremely low systemic absorption, it does not interact with alcohol in the bloodstream or liver. However, excessive alcohol consumption can sometimes affect overall skin health or lead to increased sweating in some individuals. Always follow general health guidelines regarding alcohol use provided by your doctor. If you experience any unusual reactions, consult a healthcare professional.
Current medical evidence suggests that topical antiperspirants containing Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly are safe to use during pregnancy. Because the amount of aluminum absorbed through the skin is negligible (less than 0.01%), it is not expected to reach the developing fetus or cause harm. Leading health organizations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, do not list topical antiperspirants as a concern for pregnant individuals. However, as with any product used during pregnancy, it is best to discuss it with your obstetrician. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific health profile.
While the product begins to form plugs in the sweat ducts shortly after application, it may take several days to notice the full antiperspirant effect. Most clinical studies show that maximum sweat reduction is achieved after 2 to 3 consecutive days of nightly application. This allows the 'plugs' to build up sufficiently within the sweat glands to provide consistent protection. If you stop using the product, the effect will gradually wear off over a few days as the plugs are naturally shed. For the best results, apply it to clean, dry skin before bedtime.
Yes, you can stop using Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly at any time without experiencing withdrawal symptoms or medical complications. Unlike some systemic medications, there is no need to taper off the use of a topical antiperspirant. Once you stop applying the product, your sweat glands will return to their natural level of production within a few days as the temporary plugs are washed away or exfoliated. You may notice an increase in underarm wetness almost immediately after the existing plugs are cleared. If you were using it for a medical condition like hyperhidrosis, your symptoms will likely return to their baseline.
If you miss an application of your antiperspirant, simply apply it as soon as you remember, or wait until your next scheduled application time. Missing a single dose will not cause any harm, though you may notice a slight increase in perspiration until the next application. You do not need to apply double the amount of product to make up for the missed dose. For the most consistent results, try to maintain a regular daily application schedule, preferably at night. Consistency is key to maintaining the plugs that prevent sweat from reaching the skin surface.
There is no scientific evidence or clinical data to suggest that Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly causes weight gain. The product acts locally on the surface of the skin and does not enter the systemic circulation in amounts that could affect metabolism, hormones, or fat storage. Weight gain is typically the result of dietary, lifestyle, or systemic medical factors, none of which are influenced by topical antiperspirant use. If you experience unexplained weight gain, you should consult your healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause. It is important not to attribute systemic changes to topical skin products without a medical evaluation.
Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly is generally safe to use alongside oral medications because it is not absorbed into the bloodstream in significant amounts. However, you should be cautious when using other topical treatments on the same area of the underarm, such as medicated creams or prescription-strength acne washes. Combining multiple topical products can increase the risk of skin irritation or alter the effectiveness of either treatment. Always inform your doctor about all products you are using, including over-the-counter items. If you are prescribed a topical medication for the underarm area, ask your pharmacist if it is safe to continue using your antiperspirant.
Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly is an active ingredient found in hundreds of different brand-name and generic (store-brand) antiperspirant products. Because it is an over-the-counter ingredient regulated by an FDA monograph rather than a specific patent, many manufacturers produce versions of it. You can find it in 'Extra Strength' or 'Clinical Strength' formulations at most pharmacies and grocery stores. When shopping, you can check the 'Drug Facts' label on the back of the package to see if it is the listed active ingredient. Generic versions are typically just as effective as brand-name versions if the concentration of the active ingredient is the same.