Methadone-Induced Hyperhidrosis Treated With Oxybutynin

OBJECTIVES: This case report aims to help healthcare providers and methadone clinic patients to recognize one of the less recognized adverse effects of methadone, hyperhidrosis, and to suggest oxybutynin as a possible solution. METHODS: A 35-year-old man on methadone maintenance therapy presented with excessive sweating, which began promptly after methadone was introduced. Urine toxicology was conducted every 2 weeks to rule out other illicit substances that may have contributed to the sweating. RESULTS: Oxybutynin (5 mg PO QID) resulted in cessation of the methadone-induced hyperhidrosis within 2 days of starting the medication. CONCLUSIONS: Methadone-induced excessive sweating is an adverse effect of the medication that reportedly affects up to 45% of those prescribed methadone, and oxybutynin is a potent treatment for methadone-induced excessive sweating.