Indications
Choline Salicylate is a pain-relieving ingredient used in mouth gels for the short-term relief of pain and soreness from mouth ulcers, sore gums, denture sores, cold sores on the lip and minor mouth injuries. It is often combined with an antiseptic such as Cetalkonium Chloride. Some ear drops also contain it to ease ear pain.
How It Works
Choline Salicylate is a salicylate, related to Aspirin. When applied to the lining of the mouth, it reduces the production of prostaglandins, chemicals that cause pain and inflammation, so the sore area feels less painful and less swollen.
Dosage and Administration
Use as directed on the label. For adults and young people aged 16 and over, a small amount of gel (about 1 cm) is usually gently massaged onto the sore area with a clean finger, not more often than every 3 hours and not more than the number of times a day stated on the pack. Avoid eating or drinking for a short time after applying. Do not use in children under 16 years unless a doctor advises it.
Interactions
- Blood thinners such as Warfarin: large or frequent use may add to the bleeding risk.
- Other salicylates or Aspirin taken at the same time add to the total salicylate dose.
- Methotrexate: salicylates can increase its effects.
With normal use in the mouth, interactions are unlikely, but tell your pharmacist about other medicines.
Contraindications
- Children and teenagers under 16 years, because salicylates have been linked with Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious illness affecting the brain and liver.
- Allergy to Choline Salicylate, Aspirin, other salicylates or other painkillers of the NSAID type.
- People with asthma that is triggered by Aspirin.
Side Effects
The gel may cause a short-lived stinging or burning feeling when first applied. Frequent or excessive use, especially on damaged gums, can irritate the mouth lining. Allergic reactions are rare.
Get urgent medical help if you develop wheezing or difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips, face or throat, a widespread rash, or vomiting with ringing in the ears and confusion after using large amounts.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Avoid in the last three months of pregnancy, and ask a doctor or pharmacist before use earlier in pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Occasional use of a small amount in the mouth is usually considered low risk, but salicylates can pass into breast milk.
Precautions and Warnings
- Do not use more often than recommended; repeated use over large areas can lead to salicylate side effects.
- See a dentist or doctor if a mouth ulcer lasts more than 2 weeks, keeps returning, or bleeds.
- For teething pain in babies, use only products made for babies that do not contain salicylates.
- Avoid contact with the eyes.
Overdose
Swallowing a large amount, especially by a child, can cause salicylate poisoning: vomiting, fast breathing, ringing in the ears, drowsiness or confusion. Get emergency medical help straight away.
Therapeutic Class
Topical salicylate analgesic (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory) for oral use.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light, with the cap tightly closed and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.