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Blue Gel

Generic name: menthol topical

Brand names: ActivICE, Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving, Biofreeze, Blue Gel, Flexall, Gold Bond Medicated Maximum Strength Foot, Icy Hot Extra Strength, Max-Freeze, Mineral Ice, Stopain, BENGAY Pain Relieving

Last updated October 28, 2026 0 views
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What is Blue Gel?

Blue Gel (for the skin) is used to treat adults and children at least 2 years old to provide temporary relief of muscle or joint pain caused by strains, sprains, cramps, swelling, arthritis, bruising, or backaches.

Blue Gel powder is used to treat pain and itching caused by minor cuts, sunburn, insect bites, minor burns, scrapes, or other skin irritations.

Blue Gel ointment is used to treat tingling, itching, burning, and pain caused by cold sores or fever blisters.

There are many brands and forms of menthol topical available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet.

Blue Gel may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Follow all directions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed. Tell your healthcare provider if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Blue Gel is safe to use if you have ever had an allergy or if you have:

  • sensitive skin; or
  • redness over the affected area.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

Blue Gel side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Blue Gel may cause serious side effects. Stop using Blue Gel and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • pain, swelling, burning, redness, irritation, or blistering after using Blue Gel; or
  • pain that goes away and then comes back after 7 to 10 days.

Less serious side effects may be more likely, or you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

How should I use Blue Gel?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Blue Gel comes in many different forms (gel, spray, cream, ointment, powder, film, foam, skin patch, and others).

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin. Do not use on open wounds, damaged skin, broken skin, or irritated skin.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Your dose needs may change if you switch to a different brand, strength, or form of this medicine. Avoid medication errors by using exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine.

Clean and dry the affected area.

Do not bandage treated skin or expose it to heat.

Blue Gel can cause a cold or burning sensation, which is usually mild and should lessen over time with continued use. If this sensation causes significant discomfort, wash the skin with soap and water.

Stop using this medicine and call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days, or if your symptoms get better and then come back in a few days.

Store tightly closed at cool room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Certain formulations of menthol topical are flammable. Do not use near high heat or open flame. Do not smoke until the gel has completely dried on your skin.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Blue Gel is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medicine.

Avoid getting Blue Gel in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Rinse with water if this medicine gets in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Avoid using other medications on the areas you treat with Blue Gel, unless your doctor tells you to.

What other drugs will affect Blue Gel?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use, but many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Related medicines

Before you take this medicine: the information on this page is general and may not cover your personal circumstances. Read the label supplied with your medicine and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking other medicines or managing a long-term condition.
General medicine information Consumer-friendly language Source: Drugs.com

Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.