Analgesic Balm Ointment

GENERIC NAME: MENTHOL (MEN-thall) and METHYL SALICYLATE (METH-ill sal-ISS-ill-ate)

COMMON USES: This medicine is used to relieve pain, muscle aches, and sprains, rheumatism, arthritis, and similar conditions.

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICINE: Use this medicine exactly as directed on the package, unless instructed differently by your doctor. TO USE THIS MEDICINE: FIRST, WASH YOUR HANDS. Then wash and dry the affected area, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Apply only enough medicine to completely cover the affected area. Then gently spread the medicine until it is evenly distributed. Only medicine that is actually touching the skin will work. A thick layer of medicine is usually not more effective than a thin layer. WASH YOUR HANDS immediately after using this medicine, unless your hands are part of the treated area. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST, before applying a bandage to the affected area. STORE THIS MEDICINE as directed on the package. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE and you are using it regularly, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

CAUTIONS: IF YOUR SYMPTOMS DO NOT IMPROVE or if they become worse, check with your doctor. Do not use prescription skin medications for future skin conditions without checking with your doctor. THIS MEDICINE IS FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY. Avoid getting this medicine in your eyes or on the inside of your nose and mouth. If applied to large areas or broken skin, the medicine may be absorbed. Notify your doctor if you experience ringing in the ears, nausea, or vomiting. FOR WOMEN: This medicine should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS: Some medicines that are applied to the skin may cause redness or irritation. If these effects continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if your skin becomes itchy, swollen, or you develop a rash. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your healthcare provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

BEFORE USING THIS MEDICINE: INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. ADDITIONAL MONITORING OF YOUR DOSE OR CONDITION may be needed if you are taking blood thinners (e.g., warfarin). Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies (especially to aspirin or aspirin-like drugs), pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children.

The information in this monograph is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects. This information is generalized and is not intended as specific medical advice. If you have questions about the medicines you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse.