Menthol is either manmade or made from the extracts of mint oil. Menthol provides a cooling sensation when applied to the skin or other tissues (such as the tongue, gums, or inside the cheeks).

Menthol topical oral mucous membrane (for use inside the mouth) is used to treat minor sore throat pain, or mouth irritation caused by a canker sore.

Menthol topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Do not swallow the menthol lozenge whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth without chewing.

Use a new lozenge every 2 hours or as needed.

Call your doctor if your sore throat is severe or continues for longer than 2 days, especially if you also have a fever, headache, skin rash, swelling, or nausea and vomiting. Stop using and call your doctor if you have a cough that does not improve after 7 days of treatment.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

You should not use menthol topical if you are allergic to menthol.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially:

• cough with mucus;

• cough caused by smoking, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis;

• a sore throat with fever, headache, swelling, skin rash, or nausea and vomiting; or

• if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

A menthol lozenge may contain glucose (sugar) or phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using this medicine if you have diabetes or phenylketonuria (PKU).

Do not give this medicine to a baby or young child without a doctor's advice.

Since menthol topical is when needed, you are not likely to miss a dose.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious side effects are 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.