Methyl salicylate topical

Methyl salicylate topical (for the skin) is used for short-term relief of minor aches and pains from strains, sprains, arthritis, bruising, nerve pain, simple backache, or pain in the lower spine.

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.

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

Apply only to clean and dry skin. Avoid applying over large areas of skin.

Do not apply to an open wound or to skin that is blistered, sunburned, windburned, or otherwise irritated.

Only certain forms of this medicine are for use in young children. Follow all directions when using this medicine on a child.

Apply a thin layer of medicine to the painful area and rub in gently.

Apply the skin patch over the area of pain and press the edges firmly. Remove the patch and apply a new one as directed.

Shake the spray well just before each use.

Wash your hands with soap and water after applying this medicine or handling a skin patch. To keep from getting this medicine on your fingers, apply it using a rubber glove, finger cot, cotton ball, or clean tissue.

If using the medicine to treat an area of your hands or fingers, wait at least 30 minutes before washing your hands.

Do not cover treated skin with a bandage or heating pad.

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

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.

Follow all instructions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if methyl salicylate topical is safe to use if you have ever had an allergy (especially to aspirin or other salicylates).

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

If you breastfeed, avoid applying this medicine to your nipple area.

Do not use this medicine on a child without medical advice.

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

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

• redness or swelling in the area you applied it to;
• worsening pain; or
• severe burning or skin irritation like a rash, itching, pain, or blistering.

You might experience less serious side effects, and you may not have any side effects at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. Call your doctor if you have questions about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Methyl salicylate topical is used as needed. If you have a dosing schedule and miss a dose, skip that dose. 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 has accidentally swallowed the medicine.

Avoid getting methyl salicylate topical in your eyes. If it does get in your eyes, rinse with water. Also avoid getting the medicine in your nose, mouth, rectum, or vagina.

Additionally, avoid getting the medicine on contact lenses, dentures, and other items that touch sensitive areas of your body.

Do not use other medications on the same treatment areas without medical advice.

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