Menthol and methyl salicylate topical (skin patch)

Menthol and methyl salicylate topical is used to temporarily relieve mild to moderate muscle or joint pain caused by strains, sprains, simple backache, arthritis, or bruises.

Menthol and methyl salicylate topical may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

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

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

Do not take by mouth. This topical medicine is for use only on the skin.

Wash your hands before applying a patch and after applying or removing it.

Clean and dry the area where you will apply the patch. Remove one patch from its backing film and place it on the skin. Do not wear more than one patch at a time.

Use each patch for 8 to 12 hours. If pain persists, remove the first patch before applying a second. Do not use more than 2 patches in 1 day or for more than 3 days in a row.

Do not use this medicine on your face or a rash, on wounds or damaged skin, with a heating pad, or while sweating from exercise or heat. Do not wrap treated skin tightly.

You may not feel pain relief until several hours after applying a patch.

Stop using this medicine and ask a doctor if your condition worsens, symptoms last for more than 3 days, or symptoms go away and then return within a few days.

Using more than directed or for longer than directed may increase your risk of heart attack or stroke.

Fold a used patch with the sticky sides together before throwing it away. Keep used and unused skin patches out of the reach of children or pets. A patch could be fatal to a child or pet who accidentally chews on it. Seek emergency medical help if this happens.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Do not use a patch from a pouch that has been open for 14 days or longer.

Menthol and methyl salicylate topical contains a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and can lead to stomach bleeding. Taking more than the recommended amount or using it for a longer time than advised may raise your chances of having a heart attack or stroke. Do not use this medicine right before or after heart surgery.

You should not use menthol and methyl salicylate topical if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• an allergy to aspirin or other NSAIDs.

Do not use menthol and methyl salicylate topical right before or after heart surgery.

Ask a doctor if this medicine is safe to use if you have or have ever had:

• an allergic reaction to a product used on the skin;
• a stomach ulcer or bleeding problems;
• are 60 years or older;
• 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day;
• high blood pressure or heart disease; or
• kidney disease.

Ask a healthcare professional before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not use this medicine at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless your doctor tells you to.

Not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

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

Get emergency medical help if you experience signs of a heart attack or stroke: chest pain that spreads to your jaw or shoulder, sudden numbness or weakness on one side of your body, slurred speech, leg swelling, or feeling short of breath.

Stop using menthol and methyl salicylate topical and contact a doctor if you have:

• stomach pain or upset that gets worse or lasts; feel faint; vomit blood; have bloody or black stools; or
• rash, itching, or irritation where the medicine was applied.

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.

Menthol and methyl salicylate topical is used as needed. If you miss a dose while on a dosing schedule, skip it. Do not use two doses at the same time.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone puts a patch in their mouth or accidentally swallows the medicine.

Avoid getting menthol and methyl salicylate topical in your eyes. If it gets in your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water.

Drinking alcohol may increase your risk of stomach bleeding.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using menthol and methyl salicylate topical (skin patch) with any other medicines, especially:

• if you take a blood thinner or steroid medicine;
• a diuretic ("water pill"); or
• another NSAID such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect menthol and methyl salicylate topical (skin patch), including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.