Drug
Methyl Salicylate-Menthol
Pronounced
"METH-il sa-LIS-i-late/MEN-thol"
Uses
This product is used to treat minor aches and pains of the muscles/joints (such as arthritis, backache, sprains). Menthol and methyl salicylate work by causing the skin to feel cool and then warm. These feelings on the skin distract you from feeling the aches/pains deeper in your muscles and joints.
This product should not be used by children younger than 18 years without a doctor's advice.
Check the ingredients on the label even if you have used the product before. The manufacturer may have changed the ingredients. Also, products with similar names may contain different ingredients meant for different purposes. Using the wrong product could harm you.
How to Use This Medication
Use this medication on the skin only. Clean and dry the affected area. Remove the backing from the patch and apply the patch to the affected area. Do not apply the patch to skin that is injured or irritated (such as skin that is cut, scraped, sunburned, infected, or has a rash). Leave the patch on the affected area for up to 12 hours. Use this medication as directed by your doctor or follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Only use 1 patch at time and do not use more than 2 patches in a 24-hour period.
Do not bandage or wrap the area where the patch is applied unless directed to do so by the doctor.
Heat can increase the risk of side effects. Do not apply this medication immediately before, during, or after activities that increase skin temperature (such as bathing in hot water, swimming, sun bathing, heavy exercise) or in hot/humid weather. Wait until your skin has cooled before applying the medication. Do not use a sunlamp/tanning bed, hot water bottle, or heating pad on the treated area.
Wash your hands well after handling the patch. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water.
After removing each patch, fold the used patch with the sticky sides together, and throw away in the trash away from children and pets.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts for more than 3 days, or if it gets worse, or if it keeps returning. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.