Menthol topical

Menthol topical (for the skin) is used to help adults and children who are at least 2 years old with temporary relief of muscle or joint pain from strains, sprains, cramps, swelling, arthritis, bruising, or backaches.

Menthol topical powder is used to relieve pain and itching from minor cuts, sunburn, insect bites, minor burns, scrapes, or other skin irritations.

Menthol topical ointment is used to relieve tingling, itching, burning, and pain from cold sores or fever blisters.

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

Menthol topical may also be used for purposes not mentioned in this medication guide.

Follow all instructions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed. Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if menthol topical is safe for you 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.

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

Menthol topical can cause serious side effects. Stop using menthol topical and call your doctor immediately if you experience:

• pain, swelling, burning, redness, irritation, or blistering after using menthol topical; or
• pain that goes away and then returns after 7 to 10 days.

You may experience less serious side effects, or you may not have any 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 can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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

Menthol topical 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.

Menthol topical 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.

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

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

Do not let menthol topical get in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Rinse with water if this medicine gets in those areas.

Do not use other medications on the areas you treat with menthol topical, unless your doctor advises you to.

Medicine that you apply to your skin is not likely to be influenced by other medications you use, but many medications can interact. Inform your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.