Many of us have problems with body pain, joint pain, and sprains. So, at such times, most of us go to the pharmacy and get a pain-relieving plaster (patch) and stick it on. Although these products that come under different names like Salonpas are easy to use, are we really aware of them? Are there any side effects? Can anyone use them? Let's talk about everything today.
What really happens with these patches?
Simply put, this plaster contains several types of medicines that relieve minor aches and pains in your muscles and joints. The main ingredients are Camphor, Menthol, and Methyl Salicylate .
Imagine that when you apply this to your skin, the medicine is slowly absorbed into your skin. Then something amazing happens.
The heat or cold sensation in that area blocks the signals that the brain is feeling pain. It's like closing the pain pathway. Not only that, but the methyl salicylate in it (a type of salicylate , which is a type of medication like aspirin) also reduces swelling and inflammation in that area. So we feel less pain and a lot of relief.
Things you should tell your doctor before using these
This is the most important part. Before you buy this plaster from the pharmacy and apply it, you should definitely talk to your doctor if you have any of the following medical conditions. These may not be suitable for you.
| Illness or condition | Why should you care? |
|---|---|
| If you have had heart bypass surgery (CABG) | This type of medication may be contraindicated after surgery. |
| Other heart disease or high blood pressure | These can affect blood pressure and the heart. |
| If you have kidney disease | Since the medication is eliminated from the body through the kidneys, it can place an additional burden on the kidneys. |
| If you have had stomach ulcers or bleeding | The salicylate contained in these may increase the risk of stomach bleeding. |
| If you are a regular drinker | The risk of stomach problems increases when this medication is combined with alcohol. |
| If large areas of skin are burned, injured, or damaged | Damaged skin can absorb more medication into the body and cause toxicity. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant | These are not suitable during pregnancy, especially in the last three months. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother | The medicine can pass to the baby through breast milk. |
| If you are allergic to aspirin or these medications | Severe allergies may occur. |
How exactly do you use this?
It's very easy to use, but do it in this order.
- This medicine is for topical use only. Do not put it in your mouth or use it in any other way for any reason.
- Follow the instructions on the medication label exactly.
- Do not cut or separate the plaster into pieces.
- After applying the plaster, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
- Usually, the plaster should be removed after 8 hours. If you are applying a new one, you should apply it only after removing the old one.
- Do not use more than the recommended frequency.
If given to children: Children over 12 years of age are sometimes given these on medical advice. But be sure to talk to your doctor about it and only do so on his advice.
What to do if you use too much? (Overdosage)
If you have any suspicion that you have used more of this medicine than you think, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital. This medicine is for your own use only, do not share it with others.
Things to be careful about when applying plaster
When using this, be aware of your condition.
- If your pain or symptoms do not improve, or if they seem to get worse, see a doctor.
- If you need to use this for more than 7 days, talk to your doctor about that too.
- This is very important: If your stools are black, tarry , or if you vomit something that looks like coffee grounds , it could be a sign of bleeding inside your stomach (bleeding ulcer). If this happens, seek medical advice immediately.
What are the possible side effects?
Like all medications, this one can have side effects. Let's break them down into two categories.
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, severe itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat (may cause difficulty breathing). |
| Usually nothing to worry about (but tell your doctor if it persists) | |
| Minor skin changes | Slight inflammation, redness, or dryness of the skin where the plaster was applied. |
How do you store and dispose of these safely?
It is very important to keep medicines safe.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets .
- Store at room temperature (between 20-25 Celsius), away from moisture.
- Discard after expiration date.
When disposing of plasters, remove any that are expired or no longer needed from the container. Mix them with used coffee grounds, a little soil, or cat litter, put them in a sealable bag, and throw them in the trash. Never flush them down the toilet. If you are unsure how to dispose of them, ask your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- These pain-relieving plasters are for short-term use for minor muscle and joint pain. Seek medical advice before long-term use.
- Before using these, be sure to tell your doctor about any other medical conditions (especially heart, kidney, or stomach problems) and allergies you have.
- Use as directed (e.g., do not leave on for more than 8 hours). Never apply to broken, cut, or burned skin.
- If you notice signs of a severe allergic reaction (such as facial swelling) or signs of stomach bleeding (black stools), seek immediate medical attention.
- Always store these safely out of the reach of children and pets.
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