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Pain ointments have been used for a long time, both by prescription and over the counter. Pain ointment may be a good option if you want to avoid taking oral medications or struggle with taking pills. Pain relief ointment absorbs faster than tablets and provides local relief, but how does it work?
Pain reliever ointment – action
Over-the-counter pain relief ointments often contain methyl salicylate (also known as wintergreen oil). This ingredient in pain relief ointment causes a minty odor and a chill sensation when applied to the skin. Methyl salicylate is often used as an anti-irritant that essentially acts as a pain point distracting agent.
Depending on the product and other ingredients it contains, the pain reliever ointment may also contain a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). NSAIDs are popular drugs such as ibuprofen and aspirin. Absorbed through the skin, it can reduce the inflammatory response. Their operation is more precisely based on blocking the COX-2 enzyme, which in effect prevents the formation of substances that, after reaching the receptors, start sending information about the occurrence of pain. This action makes the effectiveness of NSAIDs high. Other pain reliever ointments numb the skin with a local anesthetic called lidocaine.
Some pain ointments also contain capsaicin, which is a compound found in chili peppers and is responsible for causing a feeling of warmth. This type of ointment works by irritating nerve endings, causing a pain-like effect and by dilating blood vessels. Thanks to this, the blood flow through the place smeared with the ointment increases and the visible warmth is increased.
Other foods may contain menthol, also known as peppermint camphor, which makes you feel cool and can make your mind think that your skin or body temperature is dropping. This cold sensation numbs the nerve endings. Like ice or cold compresses, menthol reduces arterial blood flow.
See also: Poisoning with salicylic acid derivatives
Pain reliever ointment – for whom?
Topical pain reliever ointments work best for acute musculoskeletal pain, not chronic pain. So if we have a severe neck pain or have a strained muscle in our arm, we can use a pain relief ointment.
These products are also used to treat:
- arthritis;
- minor aches and pains;
- stretched or sore muscles
- sprains and strains.
Cancer discomfort and pain has also been shown to improve with topical painkillers such as pain ointment.
Pain relief ointment and gels, sprays or patches – which is the best?
It all comes down to personal preference, but it’s important to review the active ingredients in each product. If you are looking for an easy-to-apply capsaicin spray, it may only be available in the form of a gel. So let’s read the label and decide first what we’re looking for.
A pain reliever usually works well in an area where it can be applied to a flat surface, so it’s best to reach for this product if you have back or neck pain. On the other hand, an ointment or gel may be best for elbow or knee pain so that the joint can continue to move and bend.
When it comes to ointments containing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, it is difficult to say which one is the most effective (studies on this topic are not conclusive).
Pain reliever ointment – application
Pain relief ointment should be applied to clean and dry skin. Then the ointment should be spread over the painful area. It’s a good idea to do this by moving a little beyond the painful area. The painkiller ointment should be rubbed into the skin for a long time. Such action will allow more active substance to reach the injured tissues. The application of the analgesic ointment must be repeated 3-5 times a day.
See also: How to choose the best ointment for bruises?
Pain relief ointment – safety issues
It is important to use these products as directed. While it is extremely rare, there have been cases where abuse and misuse have led to serious side effects and even death from salicylate poisoning.
Be aware that NSAID-containing ointments enter the bloodstream and can cause severe or even potentially life-threatening allergic reactions, so anyone who is allergic to aspirin or other forms of NSAIDs should also avoid using these topical forms. Rashes or contact dermatitis can also be a side effect.
Another possibility is the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Absorption of these drugs by the body is minimal, so in theory they may be safer for people who have already had problems with bleeding ulcers or are on blood thinning medications and may have an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
People on topical NSAID therapy should not take any oral NSAIDs, even over-the-counter drugs such as Advil or Aleve, on the days they are using topical forms, due to the possibility of gastrointestinal bleeding or kidney problems. Paracetamol should be safe, but it’s always best to check with your doctor first.
It is advisable never to mix these products with the use of, for example, a heating pad. This can cause the ointment to be absorbed more quickly into the bloodstream.
If we are using a painkiller, remember to:
- read the label carefully before applying the painkiller ointment;
- do not use on open wounds or skin that is already injured or irritated;
- do not apply near the eyes or genitals;
- do not use with products such as a heating pad;
- stop using the painkiller if you develop a rash (in which case let’s report it to our doctor quickly);
- if the burning sensation is too painful and unpleasant, use a towel to remove the pain relief ointment from the skin;
Experts recommend that you do not use topical painkillers (of any kind) if you are pregnant.
See also: Put it on the wound
When to stop using the painkiller and see a doctor?
Most topical painkillers should not be used for seven days. Using them longer than recommended can cause a rash and sometimes even a chemical burn. Let’s stop using the painkiller if our condition worsens or the painful area becomes irritated.
If our stubborn pain just doesn’t go away, it may be time to talk to your doctor. A specialist can help with the nagging pain problem and may even prescribe a topical prescription pain reliever.
See also: Anti-inflammatory drugs – which ones to choose for your ailment?
Pain ointment and pregnancy
Lidocaine-based pain ointments are safe to use as long as the directions on the product label are followed.
Scientific studies have yet to confirm that camphor is safe for use during pregnancy, so it’s best to be careful and avoid any pain reliever ointment that contains it.
There are also no studies to determine if menthol is really safe during pregnancy, but the risk is considered low when the concentration of menthol in the pain relief ointment is low. If we want to use a menthol-based pain ointment, we should consult a doctor first.
While oral consumption of arnica is problematic during pregnancy, topical use is generally recognized as safe. However, if in doubt, consult your doctor before using this type of pain relief ointment.
Please note that in the third trimester, NSAID-based pain relief ointments should be avoided. Methyl salicylate, a common active ingredient in these products, is absorbed into the body through the skin and can cause harm to the baby and complications during childbirth.
See also: Menthol is more than just a flavor additive