Salonpas (Topical Pain Relief Patch)

Salonpas is the brand name of a topical patch that contains menthol and methyl salicylate.

Uses

What is Salonpas used for?

It is commonly used for the symptomatic relief of pain of muscles and joints associated with strains and sprains.

Directions

How should I take Salonpas?

Read the directions on the packaging for complete information. Check the label and expiration date.

Apply one plaster to the affected area and leave in place for up to 8 to 12 hours. Only use one plaster at a time. The plaster should not be used on open wounds or on skin with pathological changes such as eczema, acne, dermatitis, inflammation or infection of any nature or on mucous membrane of body orifices, or should not come into contact with the eyes.

Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling the patch.

How do I store Salonpas?

This product is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. 

There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions/Warnings

What should I know before using Salonpas?

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
• An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
• Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Unfortunately, there isn’t enough information about the safety of using this drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid placing the patches around the breast and nipple area if you are breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking any medication.

Side effects

What side effects can occur from Salonpas?

Like all medications, Salonpas may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

• General disorders and administration site conditions
• Application site rash and discoloration
• Nervous system disorders: headache
• Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders
• Pruritus and rash
• Ear and labyrinth
• Tinnitus (uncommon)

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with Salonpas?

This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. 

Drugs with known interactions:

• Coumarin anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin)
• NSAIDs and other analgesics

If you experience an adverse drug interaction, stop taking this drug and continue taking your other medication. Inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Your dose may need to be adjusted, substituted with another drug, or discontinue using the drug.

Does food or alcohol interact with Salonpas?

This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with Salonpas?

This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

What is the dose for an adult?

Apply one plaster to the affected area and leave in place for up to 8 to 12 hours. If pain recurs 8 to 12 hours after applying the first plaster, a second plaster can be applied. Only use one plaster at a time. Do not use more than 2 plasters per day. Do not use it for more than 3 days in a row.

What is the dose for a child?

The dosage has not been established in pediatric patients. It may be unsafe for your child. It is always important to fully understand the safety of the drug before using. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How is Salonpas available?

Salonpas is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Medicated plaster containing 10% methyl salicylate (105mg) and 3% levo-menthol (31.5mg).

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

Overdose is not likely when used correctly. In case of an emergency or accidental ingestion, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.