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Transderm-iQ (topical)
Generic name: capsaicin, lidocaine, menthol, and methyl salicylate (topical)
Brand names: Four Pain Rx, LidoPro, Transderm-iQ, Terocin topical
What is Transderm-iQ?
Transderm-iQ (for the skin) is a combination medicine used for temporary relief of muscle pain and soreness that may be related to arthritis, strains, backaches, or bruises.
Transderm-iQ may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.
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Warnings
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to aspirin, sulfa drugs, or PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid).
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to:
- aspirin;
- sulfa drugs; or
- sunscreen or other skin products that contain para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA).
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have ever had:
- sensitive skin;
- an allergy to chili peppers;
- a blood cell disorder called methemoglobinemia (in you or a family member);
- heart problems;
- breathing problems; or
- a genetic enzyme deficiency called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you apply the medicine to your chest, avoid areas that may come into contact with the baby's mouth.
Do not use this medicine on a child without medical advice. Transderm-iQ is not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old.
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Transderm-iQ side effects
Get emergency medical help if you notice signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Wash the skin and seek medical attention immediately if you experience severe burning, pain, swelling, or blistering of the skin where you applied this medicine.
This medicine may cause serious side effects. Stop using this medicine and contact your doctor right away if you have:
- pale skin, blue-colored lips;
- headache, confusion; or
- rapid heartbeats.
Common side effects may include a mild burning sensation that can last for several hours or days, particularly after your first use of this medicine.
This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. Contact your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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How should I use Transderm-iQ?
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.
Do not use on open wounds or on broken or infected skin. If this medicine gets in your eyes, nose, mouth, rectum, or vagina, rinse with water.
Wash your hands with soap and water immediately after applying this medicine.
This medicine can cause a burning sensation wherever it is applied. This sensation is usually mild and should gradually lessen over time with continued regular use of the medicine.
If the burning sensation is painful or causes significant discomfort, wash the treated skin area with soap and cool water. Get medical attention right away if you have severe burning, pain, redness, or skin irritation.
Shake the lotion before each use.
Do not cover treated skin with a bandage or heating pad, which can increase the burning sensation.
Call your doctor if your pain does not improve after using this medicine for 7 days, or if your symptoms get worse.
To keep this medicine from getting on your fingers when you apply it, you may use a rubber glove, finger cot, cotton ball, or clean tissue to apply the medicine.
Store the medicine at room temperature away from moisture and heat, in a place where children and pets cannot get to it.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since Transderm-iQ is used as needed, you might not have a regular dosing schedule. If you miss a dose and it's almost time for your next one, just skip the missed dose. Do not use two doses at the same time.
Do not use Transderm-iQ more than 4 times a day.
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What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222, especially if someone has accidentally swallowed it.
Do not let this medicine get in your eyes, mouth, nose, genitals, or rectum. If contact happens, rinse with water. Avoid touching these areas until the medicine has been washed off your hands.
Avoid using other medications on the areas you treat with Transderm-iQ unless your doctor instructs you to.
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What other drugs will affect capsaicin, lidocaine, menthol, and methyl salicylate?
Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. However, many drugs can interact with each other. Inform all your healthcare providers about all the medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Related medicines
Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.