Activon

Indications

Diethylamine Salicylate is a pain-relieving cream or gel rubbed onto the skin. It is used for the temporary relief of muscle and joint pain, such as backache, stiff neck, sprains, strains, bruises, sports injuries and the aches of rheumatism and mild arthritis.

How It Works

When rubbed in, Diethylamine Salicylate passes through the skin into the tissue underneath, where the salicylate part reduces the production of prostaglandins, natural chemicals that cause pain and inflammation. Rubbing it in also produces a mild warming effect on the skin that helps distract from the pain.

Dosage and Administration

For adults and children over 12 years, apply a small amount to the painful area and massage gently until absorbed, up to three times a day, or as directed on the label. Wash your hands after use unless the hands are being treated. Do not use on more than a limited area of skin at one time, and do not cover with a tight or airtight bandage or a heating pad.

Interactions

Only a small amount reaches the blood, so interactions are unlikely with normal use. If you take Warfarin or other blood thinners, or high doses of Aspirin, ask a pharmacist before using salicylate creams over large areas or for a long time. Do not apply other creams to the same area at the same time.

Contraindications

• Allergy to salicylates, including Aspirin, or to any ingredient of the product.
• People in whom Aspirin or other painkillers such as Ibuprofen have caused asthma, hives or a runny nose.
• Broken, cut, infected or inflamed skin, eczema, or near the eyes and mouth.
• Children under 12 years, unless a doctor advises it.

Side Effects

Mild redness, warmth, burning or itching at the site of application can occur. Rarely, a skin rash or allergic reaction develops.

Get urgent medical help if you develop wheezing or difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a widespread rash after using it.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Avoid use in pregnancy, especially in the last three months, unless your doctor advises it. During breastfeeding, use only on small areas for short periods after speaking to your doctor, and do not apply to the breast.

Precautions and Warnings

• For external use only.
• Avoid contact with eyes, mouth and mucous membranes; if it gets into the eyes, rinse well with water.
• Stop using it if the skin becomes very irritated.
• If pain lasts more than a week, or the area is swollen, hot and red, see a doctor.
• People with asthma or kidney disease should check with a doctor before use.

Overdose

Overuse on the skin is unlikely to cause serious harm but may irritate. If swallowed, especially by a child, seek medical help at once, as salicylates can be harmful when swallowed.

Therapeutic Class

Topical analgesic (salicylate rubefacient)

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Close the tube tightly after use.