Menthol Absorbine Jr.�, Absorbine Jr.� Extra Strength, Absorbine Jr.� Power Gel, Arctic�, Ben-Gay� Vanishing, Cool Heat�, Eucalyptamint Arthritis Pain Reliever�, Eucalyptamint Muscle Pain Relief�, Flexall 454�, Pain Gel Plus�, Pain Patch�, Pain Relief�, Rid-a-Pain�, Therapeutic Blue Ice�, Therapeutic Mineral Ice�, Therapeutic Mineral Ice� Exercise Formula, Wonder Ice� [ Comments ] [ Indications ] [ Product Information ] [ Chemical Structures] Indications: �arthralgia �mild pain �moderate pain �muscle strain �myalgia Comments: Description: Menthol is an alcohol obtained from various mint oils or prepared synthetically. Menthol has a peppermintlike odor and is the primary active agent in peppermint oil. As a single agent, menthol is used on the skin as a counterirritant in external analgesic products. Menthol is also available in various combination products as an antipruritic agent. Mechanism of Action: The exact mechanism of action of menthol is unknown. When applied topically to the skin, menthol dilates the blood vessels, causing a sensation of coldness followed by an analgesic effect. If administered by mouth in small doses, menthol has a carminative action. The counterirritant effects when used in topical preparations result from stimulation of nerves that perceive cold while depressing nerves that perceive pain. A paradoxical pain-relieving effect is achieved by producing a sensation that counters a more intense feeling of pain. Contraindications/Precautions: Do not apply to wounds, damaged, broken, or irritated skin. Do not use with a heating pad or apply after strenuous exercise. If condition worsens, or if symptoms persist for more than 7 days, or clear up and occur again within a few days, stop using and consult a doctor. Drug Interactions: No drug interactions Adverse Reactions: Hypersensitivity reactions including contact dermatitis may occur. There have been reports of apnea and instant collapse in infants following the local application of menthol to their nostrils. Ingestion may cause severe abdominal pain, ataxia, coma, drowsiness, nausea/vomiting, or vertigo. Available as: Absorbine Jr.� Liquid: menthol 1.27% Absorbine Jr.� Extra Strength Liquid, Absorbine Jr.� Power Gel, Pain Gel Plus� Lotion, and Therapeutic Mineral Ice� Exercise Formula: menthol 4% Arctic� Spray menthol (strength unknown) Ben-Gay� Vanishing Scent Non-Greasy Pain Relieving Gel and Therapeutic Blue Ice� Gel: menthol 2.5% Cool Heat� Gel and Therapeutic Mineral Ice� Gel: menthol 2% Eucalyptamint Arthritis Pain Reliever� Ointment: menthol 16% Eucalyptamint Muscle Pain Relief� Cream: menthol 8% Flexall 454� Pain Relieving Gel: menthol 7% in an aloe vera gel (vitamin E enriched) Flexall 454� Maximum Strength Pain Relieving Gel: menthol 16% in an aloe vera gel (vitamin E enriched) Pain Patch� Pad: menthol 154 mg Pain Relief� Gel: menthol 7% Rid-a-Pain� Ointment: menthol 15% Dosage: For the temporary relief of minor aches and pains of muscles and joints: Topical dosage: Adults: Apply topically to affected area not more than 3�4 times per day. References: �case report: Heng MC. Cutis 1987;39:442�4.