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Mineral Ice

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 November 2, 2026 0 views
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What is Mineral Ice?

Mineral Ice (for the skin) is used for adults and children who are at least 2 years old to give temporary relief from muscle or joint pain caused by strains, sprains, cramps, swelling, arthritis, bruising, or backaches.

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

Mineral Ice 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 included in this leaflet.

Mineral Ice may also be used for purposes not mentioned in this medication guide.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Warnings

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

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Before taking this medicine

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Mineral Ice 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.

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Mineral Ice 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.

Mineral Ice may cause serious side effects. Stop using Mineral Ice and call your doctor right away if you have:

  • pain, swelling, burning, redness, irritation, or blistering after using Mineral Ice; 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.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

How should I use Mineral Ice?

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

Mineral Ice 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.

Mineral Ice 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?

Mineral Ice can be used as needed. If you are following a dosing schedule and miss a dose, just skip it. Do not use two doses at the same time.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

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 Mineral Ice in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Rinse with water if this medicine gets in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Do not use other medications on the areas you treat with Mineral Ice, unless your doctor tells you to.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

What other drugs will affect Mineral Ice?

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.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

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