Camphor and menthol topical

Generic name: camphor and menthol topical [ KAM-for-and-MEN-thol-TOP-ik-al ]
Brand names: Alevex Pain Relieving, Alevex Pain Relieving Roll-On, Anti-Itch Steroid Free, Arctic Relief, Avedana Pain Relieving Roll On, ... show all 28 brands Fast Freeze, Fast Freeze Roll-On, Freeze It, Freeze It Roll-On, IcyHot Advanced, IcyHot Pro Dry, IcyHot Pro No Mess, IcyHot Pro Pain Relief, Men-phor, Mentholatum Ointment, Rhuli Gel, Sarna, Soltice Quick Rub, Theraflu Vapor Stick, Tiger Balm, Tiger Balm Extra Strength, Tiger Balm Neck and Shoulder, Tiger Balm Ultra Strength, Triaminic Vapor Patch, Absorbine Junior, DermaSarra (camphor-menthol), Vaporx Balm, Medicated Chest Rub (obsolete1)
Dosage forms: topical cream (-; 11%-11%; 11%-16%; 4%-10%), topical film (0.23%-0.07%; 3%-5%), topical gel (0.2%-3.5%; 0.3%-0.3%; 0.4%-3.5%), ... show all 7 dosage forms topical lotion (0.5%-0.5%; 5.5%-16%), topical ointment (-; 5.1%-5.1%; 9%-1.3%), topical spray (11%-16%), topical stick (4.8%-2.6%)
Drug class: Topical rubefacient

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jul 31, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is camphor and menthol topical?

Camphor and menthol topical (for the skin) is a combination product that is used to relieve itching, minor muscle, or joint pain. This product may also be used as a chest rub to soothe symptoms associated with the common cold.

Camphor and menthol topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Camphor and menthol topical 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.

camphor and menthol topical may cause serious side effects. Stop using camphor and menthol topical and call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe burning, stinging, or irritation where the medicine was applied; or

• breathing problems after using this medicine on the chest.

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 it is safe to use camphor and menthol topical if you have sensitive skin.

Do not use this medicine on a baby or child without your doctor's advice.

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

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

How should I use camphor and menthol topical?

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

For your first use, apply only to a small skin area to test how your skin reacts to the medicine.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin. Do not apply to open wounds or on sunburned, windburned, dry, or irritated skin.

Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine.

Camphor and menthol can cause a burning or cold sensation, which is usually mild and should lessen over time with continued use. If this sensation causes significant discomfort, wash the skin with soap and water.

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

Do not apply this medicine within 1 hour before or 30 minutes after you take a bath or shower.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if you have a fever with a headache, or a skin rash. Also call your doctor if you still have pain, or if the pain goes away and then comes back within a few days.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Protect from direct sunlight. Store away from open flame or high heat. Do not puncture or burn an empty canister.

Camphor and menthol topical dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Dermatitis:

Camphor-menthol topical ointment:
Apply topically 3 to 4 times daily for not more than 7 days.

Camphor-menthol 0.5%-0.5% topical lotion:
Topically 2 to 3 times daily.

Camphor-menthol topical 4.8%-2.6% ointment:
Apply topically up to 3 times daily.

Camphor-menthol topical 9%-1.3% ointment:
Apply topically not more than 3 to 4 times daily for not more than 7 days.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Dermatitis:

Camphor-menthol topical ointment:
2 years or older: Apply topically 3 to 4 times daily for not more than 7 days.

Camphor-menthol 0.5%-0.5% topical lotion:
2 years or older: Apply topically 2 to 3 times daily.

Camphor-menthol topical 4.8%-2.6% ointment:
2 years or older: Apply topically up to 3 times daily.

Camphor-menthol topical 9%-1.3% ointment:
2 years or older: Apply topically not more than 3 to 4 times daily for not more than 7 days.

Related/similar drugs

acetaminophen, ibuprofen, tramadol, cyclobenzaprine, Paracetamol, diclofenac, naproxen, oxycodone, Tylenol, diphenhydramine

What happens if I miss a dose?

Camphor and menthol is used when needed and does not have a daily dosing schedule. Do not use the product more often than directed on the label.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of camphor and menthol topical is not expected to be dangerous. 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 camphor and menthol topical?

Do not get this medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If contact does occur, rinse with water.

What other drugs will affect camphor and menthol topical?

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.

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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