Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving
Generic name: menthol topical [ MEN-thol-TOP-ik-al ]
Brand names: ActivICE, Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving, Biofreeze, Blue Gel, Flexall,
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Drug class: Topical rubefacient
What is Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving?
Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving (for the skin) is used to treat adults and children at least 2 years old to provide temporary relief of muscle or joint pain caused by strains, sprains, cramps, swelling, arthritis, bruising, or backaches.
Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving powder is used to treat pain and itching caused by minor cuts, sunburn, insect bites, minor burns, scrapes, or other skin irritations.
Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving ointment is used to treat tingling, itching, burning, and pain caused by cold sores or fever blisters.
There are many brands and forms of menthol topical available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet.
Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving 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.
Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving may cause serious side effects. Stop using Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving and call your doctor at once if you have:
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pain, swelling, burning, redness, irritation, or blistering after using Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving; or
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pain 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.
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Warnings
Follow all directions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed. Tell your healthcare provider if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.
Before taking this medicine
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving is safe to use if you have ever had an allergy or if you have:
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sensitive skin; or
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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.
How should I use Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving 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 affected area.
Do not bandage treated skin or expose it to heat.
Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving 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?
Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving 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 Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving?
Avoid getting Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Rinse with water if this medicine gets in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Avoid using other medications on the areas you treat with Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving, unless you doctor tells you to.
What other drugs will affect Aspercreme Heat Pain Relieving?
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 Aspercreme Pain Relieving Heat Gel (menthol topical)
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- Side effects
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- During pregnancy
- Drug class: topical rubefacient
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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.
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