Daily OTC Pearl: Aspercreme 10%

OTC/Lifestyle Pearl of the Day: Aspercreme 10%

Indication: Trolamine salicylate is used to treat minor aches and pains of the muscles/joints, such as arthritis, backache, sprains.

Insight:

• Aspercreme belongs to a class of drugs known as salicylates.
• Trolamine salicylate is a pain-relieving compound closely related to aspirin, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug.
• Aspercreme is for use on the skin only. Patients should know to not get this medication in their eyes, inside the nose or mouth, or inside the vagina.
• Apply the medication to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times a day. Rub in gently and thoroughly. After applying the medication, wash hands.
• Do not apply this medication on broken or irritated skin. Do not bandage or tightly wrap the affected area or apply heat to the area.
• Adverse effects may include blistering/peeling/redness/irritation at the application site, nausea/vomiting, and ringing in the ears.
• Aspercreme products contain the maximum percentage of lidocaine currently approved for OTC use.Versions containing lidocaine include Lidocaine cream, Lidocaine patch, Lidocaine spray, and Lidocaine liquid roll-on.

Sources:

• Aspercreme Topical: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD
• Aspercreme: Formulations, Ingredients, Warnings (verywellhealth.com)
• aspercreme image - Google Search