What are the primary uses of methyl salicylate topical. How should it be applied safely. What are the potential side effects and precautions to consider. When should you consult a healthcare professional.

Understanding Methyl Salicylate Topical: A Comprehensive Overview

Methyl salicylate topical is a widely used medication for temporary relief of minor aches and pains. This versatile treatment is available under various brand names and formulations, making it a popular choice for those seeking over-the-counter pain relief. But what exactly is methyl salicylate, and how does it work?

What is Methyl Salicylate Topical?

Methyl salicylate topical is a medication applied directly to the skin to alleviate pain. It belongs to a class of drugs known as topical rubefacients, which work by causing mild irritation to the skin, increasing blood flow to the area, and creating a warming sensation that helps mask pain signals.

Common Brand Names and Formulations

Methyl salicylate is available under numerous brand names, including:

• BENGAY
• Icy Hot
• Salonpas
• Thera-Gesic
• Mentholatum

These products come in various forms, such as:

• Creams
• Gels
• Patches
• Sprays
• Lotions
• Ointments

Primary Uses and Benefits of Methyl Salicylate Topical

Methyl salicylate topical is primarily used for temporary relief of minor aches and pains. Its effectiveness extends to various conditions, making it a versatile option for pain management.

Conditions Treated by Methyl Salicylate Topical

This medication is commonly used to alleviate pain associated with:

• Strains and sprains
• Arthritis
• Bruising
• Nerve pain
• Simple backache
• Lower spine pain

How Does Methyl Salicylate Work?

Methyl salicylate works through a dual mechanism of action:

1. It acts as a counterirritant, creating a mild irritation that increases blood flow to the area.
2. It has analgesic properties similar to aspirin, helping to reduce pain and inflammation.

This combination of effects provides effective relief for many types of minor pain and discomfort.

Proper Application and Usage Guidelines

To ensure safe and effective use of methyl salicylate topical, it’s crucial to follow proper application guidelines and usage instructions.

How to Apply Methyl Salicylate Topical

When using methyl salicylate topical:

• Clean and dry the affected area before application
• Apply a thin layer of the product to the painful area
• Gently rub the medication into the skin
• Wash your hands thoroughly after application
• Avoid covering the treated area with a bandage or heating pad

Dosage and Frequency

The appropriate dosage and frequency of use can vary depending on the specific product and formulation. Always follow the instructions provided on the product label or as directed by your healthcare provider. Generally, methyl salicylate topical can be applied up to 3-4 times daily, but this may differ based on the product’s concentration and your individual needs.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While methyl salicylate topical is generally safe when used as directed, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and take necessary precautions.

Common Side Effects

Some users may experience:

• Mild skin irritation
• Redness at the application site
• Temporary warming or cooling sensation

These effects are usually mild and subside quickly. However, if they persist or worsen, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Serious Side Effects Requiring Medical Attention

Stop using methyl salicylate topical and seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat)
• Severe redness or swelling of the treated area
• Increased pain
• Blistering or excessive irritation of the skin

Important Precautions and Contraindications

To ensure safe use of methyl salicylate topical, consider the following precautions:

Who Should Avoid Using Methyl Salicylate Topical?

Consult a healthcare provider before using this medication if you:

• Have a history of allergies, especially to aspirin or other salicylates
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Plan to use the product on a child
• Have open wounds, blisters, or irritated skin in the treatment area

Interactions and Contraindications

Be cautious when using methyl salicylate topical:

• Avoid applying to large areas of skin, as this may increase absorption and the risk of side effects
• Do not use with other topical medications without consulting a healthcare provider
• Be aware of potential interactions with oral medications, especially blood thinners or other pain relievers

Storage and Handling of Methyl Salicylate Topical Products

Proper storage and handling of methyl salicylate topical products are essential for maintaining their effectiveness and safety.

Storage Guidelines

To ensure the longevity and efficacy of your methyl salicylate topical product:

• Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat
• Keep the product away from direct sunlight
• Ensure the container is tightly closed when not in use
• Keep out of reach of children and pets

Handling Precautions

When handling methyl salicylate topical:

• Avoid contact with eyes, nose, mouth, and other sensitive areas
• Use gloves or applicators if recommended by the product instructions
• Wash hands thoroughly after application
• Do not ingest the product

When to Consult a Healthcare Professional

While methyl salicylate topical is available over-the-counter, there are situations where professional medical advice is necessary.

Situations Requiring Medical Consultation

Seek medical advice if:

• Pain persists or worsens after 7 days of use
• You experience severe side effects or signs of an allergic reaction
• You’re unsure about using the product with other medications
• You have underlying health conditions that may be affected by topical pain relievers
• You’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or considering use on a child

Emergency Situations

Call emergency services or the Poison Help line immediately if:

• Someone has accidentally ingested the product
• You experience severe allergic reactions or breathing difficulties
• There are signs of methyl salicylate toxicity, such as rapid breathing, fever, or seizures

Methyl salicylate topical offers effective relief for various minor aches and pains when used correctly. By understanding its proper use, potential side effects, and necessary precautions, you can safely incorporate this medication into your pain management routine. Remember to always read product labels carefully and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions about using methyl salicylate topical products.

Methyl salicylate topical Uses, Side Effects & Warnings

Generic name: methyl salicylate topical [ METH-il-sa-LISS-il-ate-TOP-ik-al ]
Brand names: BENGAY Arthritis, Boroleum, Castiva Cooling, Eucalyptamint, Exocaine Plus,
… show all 53 brands
Gordogesic, Heet Triple Action, Icy Hot, Salonpas Pain Patch, Satogesic, Thera-Gesic, Absorbine Jr., Wintergreen Oil, BENGAY Ultra, Analgesic Balm, Menthol C, Arthricare Cream, BENGAY Original, Salonpas Pain Gel, Salonpas Pain Spray, Banalg, Heet Analgesic Liniment, Mentholatum Pain Patch, Mentholatum Pain Gel, Penetran Pain Relieving, Satogesic Pad, Satogesic Hot Gel, Deep Down Pain Relief, Nephro-Derm, Cooling Gel, Absorbine Jr. Extra Strength, Ben Gay, Vaporizing Cold Rub, Flex-All 454, Pain Stick Arthritis Formula, Pain Stick Sports Formula, Minit Rub, Thera-P Blue, Analgesic Balm Greaseless, BENGAY Vanishing Scent, Banalg Hospital Strength, Panalgesic Gold, Therapeutic Pain Relief, Cold and Hot Pain Relief, Thera-Gesic Extra Plus, PainZone, duraflex comfort, Salonpas Pain Relief Patch, Salonpas Arthritis Pain, Precise Pain Relieving, Ultra Strength Muscle Rub, Aloe Vera Liniment, Coats Aloe Analgesic Liniment

Dosage forms: topical cream (-), topical film (-), topical gel (-), topical liquid (-), topical lotion (-), topical oil (-), topical ointment (-),
. .. show all 9 dosage forms
topical spray (-), topical stick (-)

Drug class: Topical rubefacient

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Dec 15, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is methyl salicylate topical?

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

Methyl salicylate topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

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

Before taking this medicine

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.

How should I use methyl salicylate topical?

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, 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.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Methyl salicylate topical is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

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.

What should I avoid while using methyl salicylate topical?

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

Also avoid getting the medicine on contact lenses, dentures, and other items that come in contact with sensitive areas of your body.

Avoid using other medications on the same treatment areas without medical advice.

Methyl salicylate topical 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.

This medicine may cause serious side effects. Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

• redness or swelling of the treated area;

• increased pain; or

• severe burning or skin irritation such as a rash, itching, pain, or blistering.

Less serious side effects may be more likely, and 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.

What other drugs will affect methyl salicylate topical?

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.

More about methyl salicylate topical

• Check interactions
• Compare alternatives
• Pricing & coupons
• Reviews (143)
• Side effects
• Drug class: topical rubefacient

Patient resources

• Patient Information

Other brands

Salonpas Pain Patch, Eucalyptamint, Boroleum, Castiva Cooling, … +5 more

Related treatment guides

• Osteoarthritis
• Muscle Pain
• Rheumatoid Arthritis

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 3.02.

Methyl Salicylate Topical (Icy Hot)

Brand Names:Absorbine Jr., Absorbine Jr. Extra Strength, Aloe Vera Liniment, Analgesic Balm, Analgesic Balm Greaseless, Arthricare Cream

Reviewed: December 15, 2021

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

Methyl salicylate topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

warnings

What is the most important information I should know about Methyl Salicylate Topical (Icy Hot)?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine 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.

Side Effects

What are the side effects of Methyl Salicylate Topical (Icy Hot)?

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

Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

• redness or swelling of the treated area;
• increased pain; or
• severe burning or skin irritation such as a rash, itching, pain, or blistering.

Less serious side effects may be more likely, and 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.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Can I take Methyl Salicylate Topical (Icy Hot) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

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

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

Interactions

What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Methyl Salicylate Topical (Icy Hot)?

Avoid getting this medicine in your eyes. If contact does occur, rinse with water. Also avoid getting the medicine in your nose, mouth, rectum, or vagina.

Also avoid getting the medicine on contact lenses, dentures, and other items that come in contact with sensitive areas of your body.

Avoid using other medications on the same treatment areas without medical advice.

Dosage Guidelines & Tips

How to take Methyl Salicylate Topical (Icy Hot)?

Use Methyl Salicylate Topical (Icy Hot) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

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, 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.

What should I do if I missed a dose of Methyl Salicylate Topical (Icy Hot)?

Methyl salicylate topical is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

Overdose Signs

What happens if I overdose on Methyl Salicylate Topical (Icy Hot)?

If you think you or someone else may have overdosed on: Methyl Salicylate Topical (Icy Hot),  call your doctor or the Poison Control center

(800) 222-1222

If someone collapses or isn’t breathing after taking Methyl Salicylate Topical (Icy Hot), call 911

911

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Medical Disclaimer

Drugs A-Z provides drug information from Everyday Health and our partners, as well as ratings from our members, all in one place. Cerner Multum™ provides the data within some of the Overview, Uses, Warnings, Side Effects, Pregnancy, Interactions, Dosage, Overdose, and Images sections. The information within all other sections is proprietary to Everyday Health. 

Methyl salicylate – description of the substance, pharmacology, use, contraindications, formula

Contents

• Structural formula

• Russian name

• English name

• Latin name

• chemical name

• Gross formula

• Pharmacological group of the substance Methyl salicylate

• Nosological classification

• CAS code

• pharmachologic effect

• Characteristic

• Pharmacology

• Application of the substance Methyl salicylate

• Contraindications

• Application restrictions

• Side effects of the substance Methyl salicylate

• Interaction

• Overdose

• Dosage and administration

• Precautionary measures

• Trade names with the active substance Methyl salicylate

Structural formula

Russian name

Methyl salicylate

English name

Methylsalicylate

Latin name

Methylii salicylas ( 9006 1 genus Methylii salicylatis)

Chemical name

Methyl ester of salicylic acid.

Generic formula

C ₈ H ₈ O ₃

Pharmacological group of the substance Methyl salicylate

NSAIDs – Derivatives of salicylic acid

Nosological classification

ICD-10 code list

CAS code

119-36-8

Pharmacological action

Pharmacological action 9 0095-

analgesic , anti-inflammatory .

Characteristics

Colorless or yellowish liquid with a characteristic aromatic odour. Methyl salicylate is very slightly soluble in water, miscible with ethanol and ether in all proportions. Density 1.176–1.184.

Pharmacology

Non-selectively inhibits cyclooxygenase, reduces PG synthesis. Normalizes increased capillary permeability, improves microcirculation, reduces swelling and infiltration of inflamed tissues. With local application, it quickly penetrates into the deep layers of the skin, is absorbed, hydrolyzed and converted into an anion of salicylic acid.

Application of the substance Methyl salicylate

Arthritis (including rheumatic), myalgia, exudative pleurisy.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity (including to other derivatives of salicylic acid).

Restrictions for use

Pregnancy, children.

Side effects of the substance Methyl salicylate

Irritation at the site of application, allergic skin reactions.

Interaction

Enhances the effect of anticoagulants.

Overdose

Possible in children and when applied to large areas of the skin.

Symptoms: headache, tinnitus, visual disturbances, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, epigastric pain, respiratory alkalosis or metabolic acidosis, hyperthermia, hypokalemia, hyperglycemia.

Treatment: correction of electrolyte and water balance, forced diuresis, external body cooling; in severe cases – blood transfusion, hemodialysis.

Dosage and administration

Apply topically to the skin over the affected area of ​​the joints and rub in lightly.

Precautions

Do not apply to broken skin. To prevent acute intoxication with salicylates, rubbing large amounts should be avoided (especially for children and pregnant women).

Trade names with active substance Methyl salicylate

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Methyl salicylate | it’s… What is Methyl Salicylate?

Methyl salicylate (Methylii salicylas) is a methyl ester of salicylic acid. Synonyms – Methylis salicylas, Methylium salicylicum.

In this article Methyl salicylate is considered as a drug (it is also the trade name of the drug in Russia and its INN).

General information

Application history

Methyl salicylate has been isolated as the main component from the oil of wintergreen and the essential oil of cherry birch. As part of these oils, the widespread medical use of methyl salicylate was begun.

General properties

A colorless volatile liquid with a strong characteristic odour, the main component of vinaigrette essential oil, currently mainly synthetic methyl salicylate is used. Applied externally as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent per se and mixed with chloroform, turpentine oil, fatty oils for rubbing in articular and muscular rheumatism, arthritis, exudative pleurisy.

In addition, the following finished dosage forms containing methyl salicylate are available.

• Linimentum (Balsamum) “Sanitas”]. Contains: methyl salicylate 24 g, eucalyptus oil 1.2 g, purified turpentine oil 3.2 g, camphor 5 g, lard and vaseline 33.3 g each.
• Nayatox ointment
• Bom-Benge ointment (Unguentum Boum-Benge). Contains: menthol 3.9 g (or peppermint oil 7.8 g), methyl salicylate 20.2 g, medical vaseline 68.9 g, medical paraffin 7 g (per 100 g).
• Liniment “Naftalgin” (Linimentum “Naphthalginum”). Contains methyl salicylate, analgin and Naftalan oil 2.5 parts each, a mixture of fatty alcohols of sperm whale oil 3 parts, an emulsifier 13 parts, water up to 100 parts.
• Capsin (Capsinum). Liniment containing methyl salicylate 1 part, bleached oil and tincture of capsicum 2 parts each.
• Methyl salicylate liniment complex (Linimentum methylii salicylatis compositum). Contains methyl salicylate and chloroform 33.3 g each, bleached (or dope) oil 33.4 g (per 100 g).
• Salinimentum (Salinimentum). Contains: methyl salicylate and chloroform 20 g each, bleached (or dope) oil 60 g (per 100 g).