Pain Rubs, Sprays and Patches

What are some of the benefits of using topical products instead of tablets?

• Localized treatment
• Little or no side effects
• Faster acting than some anti-inflammatory tablets

What are some of the common Active Ingredients?

• Methyl Salicylate
• Methyl Nicotinate
• Capsicum
• Trolamine Salicylate
• Magnesium Chloride
• Arnica Montana
• Camphor/Menthol
• NSAIDS (eg. Ibuprofen)

What are the differences between all these products?

Biofreeze®: These products contains natural menthol. This is classified as a Cooling Pain Reliever. The menthol in Biofreeze is readily absorbed and physiotherapists recommend it because of this. It is available as a roll on, spray or gel.

Bengay® Pain Relieving Cream: This typically comes in a red box and contains the active ingredients camphor, menthol and methyl salicylate. If the odor is too strong, the Bengay® Vanishing Scent (in the yellow box) contains less ingredients, but very little odor.

Australian Dream®: This contains histamine dihydrochloride. There are not many studies on this product. However based on patient reviews, it seems to be effective in relieving pain and is a good alternative if other products have failed.

Salonpas-HOT®: This contains Capsicum. Some benefits of a patch versus a rub are that they are not messy, and oftentimes there isn’t a strong odor with their application. It can take up to 14 days to get full pain relief with Capsicum and at high concentrations (0.075%) this can be useful in relieving diabetic nerve pain when applied four times daily.

Arnica gel®: This is a more natural option which may decrease pain for osteoarthritis when applied twice daily for 3 weeks based on clinical studies. Avoid taking oral Arnica® as they may have side effects with no real benefit in relieving pain.

Natural Calm®: This contains magnesium chloride and is a viable option to use in pain relief as it relaxes the smooth muscles. It is one of the more natural options. However, there are only small studies done on this drug.

Ibuleve®: This contains Ibuprofen which is an anti-inflammatory medicine. You must follow the directions on the box very closely, since it is easy to apply too much. Note there is no added benefit in using oral and topical anti-inflammatory medicines together, and this combination may lead to more side effects.

Thermacare Heatwraps®: This is a drug free method of relieving pain. There is no unpleasant odor, it provides 8 hours of heat while on. It is very light weight and stays in place.

Key Points

• Never apply to wound or damaged skin
• Do not use with heating pads because it could burn
• Do not use under a tight bandage
• Avoid touching eyes with product on hands
• Wash hands well after using topical analgesics
• If you are allergic to Aspirin or taking blood thinners, check doctor before using topical medications with Salicylates or Ibuprofen rubs