Did you know these things about the cream used to treat joint pain and muscle spasms? (Menthol; Methyl Salicylate Cream)

When we sprain an arm or leg, pull a muscle, or have a sore joint, we often run out and look for some pain killer cream . At that time, the cold or heat we feel seems to reduce the pain a little. These come under different names, for example, you may have heard of names like Icy Hot and BenGay. So, today we will talk about what these creams actually contain, how they work to reduce pain in our body , and what we should definitely be careful about when using them.

What actually happens with this cream?

These creams, lotions, and ointments mainly contain two ingredients called menthol and methyl salicylate . These help relieve our minor muscle and joint pains.

Simply put, this is how it works:

When you apply this cream to the painful area, the skin in that area will start to feel either cool or warm. This sensation interferes with the pain signals going to your brain. It's as if your brain forgets about the pain for a while while focusing on the cold/warmth. This gives you temporary relief.

Additionally, it contains methyl salicylate, which helps reduce inflammation , which means swelling and redness, at the site of pain. This actually belongs to a class of drugs called salicylate .

Things to tell your doctor before using this medicine

Although this is a topical cream, if you have certain health conditions, you should definitely talk to your doctor before using it, as some of the ingredients can be absorbed into the body through the skin.

How exactly do you use this?

To get the most out of this, you need to use it properly.

• For topical use only: This is not a medicine to be taken orally. Do not put it in your mouth for any reason.
• Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after applying the medicine. However, if you are applying the medicine for a sore hand, wash your hands only before applying it. Do not wash your hands after applying it.
• Be careful with your eyes: Avoid getting it in sensitive areas like your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, immediately rinse your eyes thoroughly with lukewarm water.
• How to apply: Apply a thin film of this cream to the painful area. Do not rub or massage too hard. Just leave it on.
• Do not apply to wounds: Do not apply this to areas where the skin is burned, scratched, or injured. Doing so may increase inflammation.
• If given to children: Sometimes a doctor may recommend this for children over 2 years of age. However, do not use these on young children without medical advice.

What if you use too much by mistake?

If you think you've used more of this medicine than you thought, or if someone, like a small child, accidentally puts it in their mouth, don't take it lightly.

Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or, go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not share it with others.

Other things to consider when using the medicine

• If your pain does not improve after 7 days, or if it gets worse, be sure to see a doctor. Seek medical advice before continuing to use this cream.
• Sometimes, stomach ulcers can occur as a result of the absorption of these medications into the body. If your stools are black and tarry, or if you vomit something that looks like coffee grounds, it could be a sign of bleeding from a stomach ulcer. If this happens , see a doctor immediately.
• Do not use any other skin medication, lotion, or oil on the same area as this cream. If you do, you should definitely ask your doctor.

What are the possible side effects?

Not everyone gets side effects. However, some people do. It is very important to be aware of these.

How do you properly store and dispose of medication?

It is very important to store medication properly and dispose of it properly when it expires.

Storage

• Be sure to keep it out of the reach of children and pets .
• Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Protect from extreme heat and extreme cold.
• Do not use after the expiration date.

Removal

When disposing of expired or no longer needed medication, do not throw it directly into the trash.

1. Take the medicine out of the tube/bottle.

2. Mix it well with something that no one would eat, such as used tea leaves, coffee grounds, or soil.

3. Place this mixture in a tightly sealed plastic bag or other container.

4. Then throw it in the trash.

Removing it this way prevents a child or animal from accidentally putting it in their mouth.