Indications
Methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen) is used on the skin, usually in rubs, balms, creams, gels or sprays, often with Menthol, for short-term relief of:
- Muscle aches, stiffness and strains
- Sprains, bruises and minor sports injuries
- Back pain, neck pain and joint pain
How It Works
It is a counter-irritant: it produces a warming feeling that distracts from deeper pain. A small amount is absorbed through the skin as salicylate, which is related to Aspirin and helps reduce local pain and inflammation.
Dosage and Administration
Adults and children over 12 years: apply a thin layer to the painful area and massage in gently, three or four times a day. Do not use in children under 12 unless a doctor advises. Wash hands after use, unless the hands are being treated. Do not cover with a tight bandage, and do not use with a heating pad or hot water bottle. Stop using after 7 days if the pain has not improved and see a doctor.
Interactions
- Warfarin: frequent use or use on large areas can increase its effect and the risk of bleeding.
- Aspirin and other salicylate products: avoid using several salicylate products together.
Contraindications
- Allergy to methyl salicylate, Aspirin or other salicylates
- Asthma that is made worse by Aspirin or other painkillers
- Broken, irritated or infected skin, and wounds
- Near the eyes, inside the nose or mouth, or on other sensitive areas
- Young children, unless a doctor advises
Side Effects
Common: redness, warmth, stinging or mild burning at the site. Rarely: skin rash or allergic reaction.
Get urgent medical help if there is blistering or a burn, swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, ringing in the ears, nausea and vomiting, or fast breathing. If any product containing methyl salicylate is swallowed, especially by a child, get emergency help immediately, because even a small amount can be very poisonous.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Avoid frequent use or use on large areas during pregnancy, especially in the last three months; short-term use on a small area only on medical advice. While breastfeeding, short-term use on a small area is generally acceptable, but do not apply it to the breast.
Precautions and Warnings
- Use only on the skin; never swallow.
- Do not apply to large areas of the body or use for long periods.
- Avoid heat on the area after applying, including hot baths straight after.
- Keep well away from children; it can smell like sweets.
Overdose
Swallowing it can cause salicylate poisoning: vomiting, ringing in the ears, fast breathing, confusion, fits and collapse. This is an emergency; go to hospital immediately. Too much on the skin can cause irritation or burns; wash it off with soap and water.
Therapeutic Class
Topical pain reliever (counter-irritant, salicylate).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.