When we all have a sore body, a sprain, or a minor bruise while playing, painkillers, creams, gels, or sprays are the first thing we reach for. We use them often because they provide quick relief. But there are a few things we need to be careful about when using these things. Today we are talking about menthol and methyl salicylate, which are contained in such a popular spray.
What is this painkiller spray?
Simply put, this is a medicine that is used to relieve minor aches and pains in your muscles and joints . When we spray it on the skin, it feels either cool or warm. Think of it like having an ice pack or a hot water bottle. This sensation temporarily blocks the pain signal from going to the brain. That is, our brain focuses on the coolness/heat, making us forget about the pain.
In addition, the ingredients in this medicine help reduce inflammation, that is, swelling and redness, in the area of pain. The main ingredient in this medicine is a chemical called salicylate. This is an ingredient related to aspirin. That is why we need to be especially careful about some things.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this spray
Before you use a spray like this, you should definitely inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions. This is very important, because the ingredients in this medicine can interact with some medical conditions.
| Do you have these conditions? | Why should you inform? |
|---|---|
| Stomach ulcers or bleeding problems. | The salicylate contained in this medicine may increase the risk of stomach bleeding. |
| Kidney disease. | Since medication is filtered through the kidneys, problems may occur if the kidneys are not functioning properly. |
| Heart disease, high blood pressure, or having had bypass surgery (CABG). | Some painkillers can have adverse effects on heart patients. |
| Burned or injured skin. | Applying the medication to injured skin can cause more medication to be absorbed into the body and cause side effects. |
| Frequent drinking. | Combining alcohol and salicylates further increases the risk of stomach bleeding. |
| Being pregnant or trying to get pregnant. | It is essential to seek medical advice before using any medication during pregnancy. |
| Being a breastfeeding mother. | You should ask your doctor if the medication can pass to your baby through breast milk. |
| Having allergies to other medicines, foods, or substances. | It is important to check if you are allergic to anything contained in this medicine. |
This is a great way to use it.
- For skin only: This is for skin use only . Do not ingest or ingest in any other way for any reason.
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after using the product. 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.
- Follow the instructions: Follow the instructions on the bottle exactly. Do not use more than necessary, that is, more than the recommended amount.
- If given to children: Children under 12 years of age should definitely seek medical advice before using these.
Overdose: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, or if someone, such as a small child, has accidentally taken it, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things to be careful about when using
If you continue to use this spray for more than 7 days and the pain does not subside, or if the pain seems to be getting worse, see your doctor immediately .
This is the most important thing. The salicylate in this medicine can sometimes cause stomach ulcers and bleeding. If your stools are black, tarry , or if you vomit coffee grounds , it could be a sign of bleeding in the stomach. If this happens, see a doctor immediately.
Are there any side effects?
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people, but not everyone does.
| Side effect | What to do? |
|---|---|
| Things to inform your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions: Skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. | This is an emergency. Stop using the medicine immediately and see a doctor or go to the ETU. |
| Things to tell your doctor if it persists or is bothersome | |
| Slight redness, dryness, or slight inflammation of the skin where the medicine was applied. | These usually go away after a while, but if they persist or are severe, tell your doctor. |
How should I store this medicine?
Keep this out of the reach of children and pets . It is best to store it at room temperature (between 20-25 Celsius). Most importantly, this spray is flammable . So keep it away from fire, places with high heat (e.g. near a stove), and when smoking. Do not use after the expiration date.
Take-Home Message
- These sprays should only be used on the skin. Do not apply inside the mouth, in the eyes, on cuts, or on burned skin.
- If you have conditions like stomach ulcers, kidney disease, or heart disease, be sure to ask your doctor before using these.
- Black stools and vomit that looks like coffee grounds can be signs of bleeding in the stomach. If you notice any of these, seek medical advice immediately.
- If severe allergic symptoms (skin rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) occur, seek medical attention immediately.
- This medicine is flammable, so keep it away from fire and excessive heat, and keep it out of the reach of children.
- If you have any doubts about anything, the best thing to do is talk to your doctor.
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