Generic name: camphor and menthol topical [ kam-for-and-men-thol-top-ik-al ]
Drug class: Topical rubefacient
Availability: Over the counter
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
Brand names: Arctic relief, Avedana pain relieving roll on, Fast freeze, Rhuli gel, Sarna
What is Men-phor?
Men-phor (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.
Men-phor may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed.
How should I use Men-phor
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.
Before Taking
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe to use Men-phor 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.
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 Men-phor 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 Men-phor?
Do not get this medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If contact does occur, rinse with water.
Men-phor 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.
Men-phor may cause serious side effects. Stop using Men-phor 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.
See more: Men-phor Side Effects