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Castiva Cooling

Generic name: methyl salicylate topicalMETH-il-sa-LISS-il-ate-TOP-ik-al ]
Brand names: Arthricare Cream, Boroleum, Castiva Cooling, Coats Aloe Analgesic Liniment, Cold and Hot Pain Relief, ... show all 25 brands
Drug class: Topical rubefacient

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 1, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Castiva Cooling?

Castiva Cooling (for the skin) is used for temporary relief of minor aches and pains caused by strains, sprains, arthritis, bruising, nerve pain, simple backache, or pain in the lower spine.

Castiva Cooling may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Castiva Cooling 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.

Castiva Cooling may cause serious side effects. Stop using Castiva Cooling and call your doctor at once if you have:

Less serious side effects may be more likely, and 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.

Warnings

Follow all directions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed.

Before taking this medicine

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Castiva Cooling is safe to use if you have ever had an allergy (especially to aspirin or other salicylates).

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you breastfeed, avoid applying this medicine to your nipple area.

Do not use this medicine on a child without medical advice.

How should I use Castiva Cooling?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.

Apply only to clean and dry skin. Avoid applying over large areas of skin.

Do not apply to an open wound or to skin that is blistered, sunburned, windburned, otherwise irritated.

Only certain forms of this medicine are for use in young children. Follow all directions when using this medicine on a child.

Apply a thin layer of medicine to the painful area and rub in gently.

Apply the skin patch over the area of pain and press the edges firmly. Remove the patch and apply a new one as directed.

Shake the spray well just before each use.

Wash your hands with soap and water after applying this medicine or handling a skin patch. To keep from getting this medicine on your fingers, apply it using a rubber glove, finger cot, cotton ball, or clean tissue.

If using the medicine to treat an area of your hands or fingers, wait at least 30 minutes before washing your hands.

Do not cover treated skin with a bandage or heating pad.

Stop using this medicine and call your doctor if your pain does not improve after 7 days, or if your symptoms get worse or get better and then come back in a few days.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.

acetaminophen, aspirin, prednisone, ibuprofen, duloxetine, Paracetamol, diclofenac, naproxen, Tylenol, Cymbalta

What happens if I miss a dose?

Castiva Cooling 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 Castiva Cooling?

Avoid getting Castiva Cooling in your eyes. If contact does occur, rinse with water. Also avoid getting the medicine in your nose, mouth, rectum, or vagina.

Also avoid getting the medicine on contact lenses, dentures, and other items that come in contact with sensitive areas of your body.

Avoid using other medications on the same treatment areas without medical advice.

What other drugs will affect Castiva Cooling?

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.

Does Castiva Cooling interact with my other drugs?

Enter other medications to view a detailed interaction report.

Popular FAQ

Is Vicks VapoRub an effective nasal decongestant?

No, Vicks VapoRub is not a nasal decongestant. It comes as a topical ointment that contains camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil. These three ingredients work together to create a cooling sensation in the nose and suppress your cough reflex, which may make you feel like you can breathe easier. Continue reading

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.