These pain-relieving creams are something that almost everyone uses in our homes. For minor joint pain, sprained ankles, or muscle strains after exercising, we often look for such creams. Most of the time, these contain ingredients like Camphor and Menthol. Although using these is common, it is very important that we are fully aware of these medicines. So, let's talk about this in a simple way today.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, Camphor and Menthol are used to relieve minor aches and pains in your muscles and joints. When you apply this cream to your skin, you feel a slight tingling sensation, sometimes hot, sometimes cool. This sensation blocks some of the pain signals from the area of your pain to your brain. This means that your brain 'feels' less pain.
This is like when a small child falls, we touch the spot and say, "Don't be afraid, it's okay now." It's like the child forgets the pain because of the sensation we give, and the warm/cool sensation this cream gives makes your brain focus on that rather than the pain.
This medicine may also be used for other purposes. If you have any questions about this, ask your doctor.
Things to tell your doctor before using this cream
It is very important that your doctor is aware of these things before you start using this medication.
- If you have large areas of burned, injured, or damaged skin.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction or unusual reaction to camphor, menthol, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
If you have a condition like this, be sure to talk to your doctor before using this cream.
How exactly do you use this?
Be very careful about these things when using this medicine.
- For external use only: This is for skin application only. Do not put in mouth or swallow for any reason.
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after applying the medicine. However, if you are applying the medicine to your hands, wash your hands only before applying it.
- Be careful with your eyes: Do not let it get into your eyes. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, rinse your eyes thoroughly with clean water for several minutes.
- Use the right amount: Use only the recommended amount, as directed on the label. Don't apply too much. Just like applying cream to your face, apply a thin film only to the area of pain.
- Do not apply to wounds: Do not apply this cream to cuts, scrapes, or burns on the skin.
- If given to children: These can be given to children over 2 years of age in some cases. However, be sure to talk to your doctor about it and only do so according to his or her instructions.
What to do if you overdose on medication?
This is very important. If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, or if someone (especially a small child) has accidentally swallowed it, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately . Or, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) without delay.
Do not leave these medicines within reach of small children. They may think they are toys and put them in their mouths.
What are the things to be careful about when using it?
If your symptoms do not improve after using this cream for a week (7 days), or if the pain worsens, be sure to see your doctor. It is best to seek medical advice before continuing to use this medicine.
Also, do not apply any other cream, lotion, or ointment to the area of skin where this medicine is applied without consulting your doctor.
Are there any side effects?
Like any medicine, this can cause minor side effects in some people, but most people don't.
| Type of side effect | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Minor skin problems | Slight redness, dryness, or slight inflammation of the skin where the medicine was applied. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything different, talk to your doctor.
How do you store and dispose of this medicine safely?
Keeping safe
- Keep away from children: Keep these out of reach of small children and pets, at a height.
- Temperature: Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Protect from extreme heat or cold.
- Keep away from fire: These medications are flammable . Therefore, do not store them near flames or excessive heat, such as near stoves, matchboxes, or smoking areas.
- After expiration: Do not use after the expiration date.
Removal
Do not throw away expired or unwanted medicines into the environment. If you are unsure about the correct way to dispose of them, ask your doctor. In general, if it is safe to throw them in the trash, do the following:
1. Remove the medicine from the tube or bottle.
2. Mix it well with something like used tea leaves, coffee grounds, soil, or cat litter.
3. Place this mixture in a resealable bag or container, seal it, and throw it in the trash.
Take-Home Message
- These creams should only be used on the skin . Never put them in your mouth.
- Do not apply these to cuts, scrapes, wounds, or in the eyes .
- If you have allergies, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding, tell your doctor before use.
- If the pain does not subside after 7 days of use or if the pain increases, seek medical advice .
- Keep these out of reach of small children and away from fire .
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