What is methyl salicylate topical used for. How should methyl salicylate be applied to the skin. What are the potential side effects of using methyl salicylate topically. When should you avoid using methyl salicylate cream or patches. How does methyl salicylate work to relieve pain.

What is Methyl Salicylate and How Does it Work?

Methyl salicylate is a topical medication used for temporary relief of minor aches and pains. It belongs to a class of drugs called topical rubefacients, which work by causing mild irritation or redness of the skin to distract from deeper pain. Methyl salicylate is often combined with other ingredients like menthol in over-the-counter pain relief products.

This compound is derived from wintergreen oil and works similarly to aspirin when absorbed through the skin. It helps reduce inflammation and provides analgesic effects to soothe sore muscles and joints. Methyl salicylate increases blood flow to the applied area, creating a warming sensation that can help relax tense muscles.

Common Uses for Methyl Salicylate Topical Products

• Arthritis pain
• Muscle strains and sprains
• Backaches
• Bruising
• Minor joint pain
• Nerve pain

Can methyl salicylate be used for all types of pain? While effective for many minor aches, it is not intended for severe or chronic pain conditions. Always consult a doctor for persistent or worsening pain before relying on over-the-counter treatments.

Proper Application and Usage Guidelines

Using methyl salicylate topical products correctly is crucial for both effectiveness and safety. Here are some key guidelines to follow:

1. Clean and dry the skin before application
2. Apply a thin layer to the affected area
3. Gently rub in the product
4. Wash hands thoroughly after use
5. Do not bandage or apply heat to treated areas
6. Avoid use on open wounds or irritated skin

Is it safe to use methyl salicylate multiple times per day? Most products can be applied 3-4 times daily, but always follow the specific instructions on the packaging. Overuse can lead to skin irritation or increased risk of side effects.

Special Considerations for Different Formulations

Methyl salicylate is available in various forms, including creams, gels, patches, and sprays. Each may have slightly different application methods:

• Patches: Apply directly to skin and press edges firmly
• Sprays: Shake well before use and apply from a short distance
• Sticks: Apply directly to skin like a deodorant
• Creams/Gels: Massage a thin layer into the skin

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While generally safe when used as directed, methyl salicylate can cause side effects in some individuals. Being aware of these potential issues can help users identify problems early and seek appropriate care.

Common Side Effects

• Skin irritation or redness
• Burning sensation
• Itching
• Rash

When should you be concerned about side effects from methyl salicylate? If you experience severe burning, blistering, or signs of an allergic reaction like difficulty breathing or swelling, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.

Precautions and Contraindications

Certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid using methyl salicylate topical products:

• People with aspirin allergies
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (consult a doctor first)
• Children (use only as directed by a healthcare provider)
• Those with sensitive skin or existing skin conditions

Why is it important to avoid using methyl salicylate on large areas of skin? Applying the product over extensive areas can increase absorption into the bloodstream, potentially leading to salicylate toxicity, especially in susceptible individuals.

Drug Interactions and Safety Considerations

While topical use generally poses a lower risk of drug interactions compared to oral medications, it’s still important to be aware of potential issues, especially for those using multiple medications or with certain health conditions.

Potential Drug Interactions

• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
• Oral salicylates (e.g., aspirin)
• Some diabetes medications
• Certain seizure medications

How can you minimize the risk of drug interactions with methyl salicylate? Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re using, including over-the-counter and topical products. They can assess potential risks and adjust treatments if necessary.

Special Populations and Considerations

Some groups may need to take extra precautions when using methyl salicylate:

• Elderly: May have thinner skin, increasing absorption
• Diabetics: Should monitor for skin reactions carefully
• Those with kidney or liver disease: May have altered drug metabolism

Comparing Methyl Salicylate to Other Topical Pain Relievers

Understanding how methyl salicylate compares to other common topical pain relievers can help users make informed choices about their pain management strategies.

Methyl Salicylate vs. Capsaicin

• Mechanism: Methyl salicylate works through anti-inflammatory effects, while capsaicin depletes pain-signaling neurotransmitters
• Onset: Methyl salicylate typically provides faster initial relief
• Duration: Capsaicin may offer longer-lasting effects with consistent use
• Sensation: Methyl salicylate creates a cooling/warming feeling, capsaicin causes a burning sensation

Methyl Salicylate vs. Topical NSAIDs

• Absorption: Methyl salicylate is more readily absorbed through the skin
• Systemic effects: Topical NSAIDs generally have fewer systemic effects
• Specific use: NSAIDs may be more effective for inflammatory conditions

Which topical pain reliever is most effective? The best choice depends on the individual, the type of pain, and personal preferences. Some may find a combination of products most effective under medical guidance.

Long-term Use and Alternatives

While methyl salicylate can be effective for short-term pain relief, it’s important to consider the implications of long-term use and explore alternative options for managing chronic pain.

Considerations for Extended Use

• Skin sensitivity may increase over time
• Risk of systemic absorption may rise with prolonged use
• Efficacy may diminish due to tolerance

Is it safe to use methyl salicylate indefinitely for chronic pain? Extended use should be monitored by a healthcare provider, as it may mask underlying conditions or lead to complications.

Alternative Pain Management Strategies

For those seeking alternatives to topical analgesics, consider:

• Physical therapy
• Acupuncture
• Massage therapy
• Low-impact exercise (e.g., swimming, yoga)
• Heat or cold therapy
• Cognitive behavioral therapy for pain management

How can you determine the best long-term pain management strategy? Work closely with healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive plan that may include a combination of treatments tailored to your specific needs and condition.

Understanding Product Labels and Ingredients

Navigating the world of over-the-counter pain relievers can be confusing. Understanding product labels and key ingredients can help consumers make informed choices about methyl salicylate products.

Common Brand Names

Methyl salicylate is found in many popular products, including:

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

Key Ingredients to Look For

Many products combine methyl salicylate with other active ingredients:

• Menthol: Provides a cooling sensation
• Camphor: Offers additional pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects
• Capsaicin: Enhances pain-relieving properties
• Eucalyptus oil: Adds aromatherapy benefits

How do combination products differ in effectiveness from single-ingredient formulations? Combination products may offer broader pain relief through multiple mechanisms, but they also increase the risk of skin reactions or interactions. Choose based on your specific needs and tolerances.

Decoding Concentration Levels

Methyl salicylate concentration can vary widely between products:

• Low concentration: 5-10%
• Medium concentration: 10-20%
• High concentration: 20-30%

Higher concentrations are not always better and may increase the risk of side effects. Start with lower concentrations and increase as needed under guidance.

Proper Storage and Disposal of Methyl Salicylate Products

Ensuring proper storage and disposal of methyl salicylate products is crucial for maintaining their effectiveness and preventing accidental exposure or environmental contamination.

Storage Guidelines

• Keep at room temperature (typically between 68-77°F or 20-25°C)
• Avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat
• Store away from moisture
• Keep out of reach of children and pets

Why is proper storage important for methyl salicylate products? Improper storage can lead to degradation of the active ingredients, reducing effectiveness and potentially increasing the risk of skin irritation.

Disposal Methods

When disposing of unused or expired methyl salicylate products:

1. Check for local medication take-back programs
2. If unavailable, mix with undesirable substance (e.g., used coffee grounds)
3. Place in a sealed plastic bag
4. Dispose of in household trash
5. Remove or obscure personal information on packaging

Never flush topical medications down the toilet or drain unless specifically instructed to do so, as this can contaminate water supplies.

Expiration Dates and Efficacy

Pay attention to expiration dates on methyl salicylate products:

• Efficacy may decrease after expiration
• Risk of skin irritation may increase with expired products
• Texture or smell changes can indicate degradation

Is it ever safe to use expired methyl salicylate products? While they may not be harmful, expired products may be less effective and could potentially cause skin irritation. It’s best to replace them with fresh products for optimal results and safety.

By understanding proper usage, potential side effects, and important considerations surrounding methyl salicylate topical products, users can maximize the benefits of this pain-relieving compound while minimizing risks. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially when dealing with chronic pain or when considering long-term use of any topical analgesic.

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).