Trumm Drug

Topical Over the Counter Analgesics

It’s that time of the year when the weather starts turning colder and many people may be thinking about renewing their gym memberships or dusting off the treadmill. As the summer exercise opportunities wind down for the season and people move indoors, new workout routines may develop. With any change in physical activity, muscle aches and pains can occur. For many patients, topical over-the-counter (OTC) products are appropriate to treat this discomfort. There are many different types of these medications and it can sometimes be a little confusing as to what they all are. Of the different products, most contain one of three different medication(s). With all of these medications, it is important to wash your hands after applying the products. It is also important not to use these products to mask an injury, such as a strained muscle, by applying them before intense exercise, as this may cause you to aggravate the condition.
One group of these products, and often the first to come to mind, are those that contain menthol and methyl salicylate (Icy Hot, Theragesic and Bengay). These products provide a cooling or cooling and heating sensation that works by “distracting” your nerves, causing you to sense the warm and cold sensations instead of the muscle ache. These medications work quickly and may provide rapid relief.
A second group of products are those that contain the topical analgesic Trolamine salicylate. These products, including Myoflex and Aspercreme, tout being “odorless”. This medication works similarly to aspirin, but because very little medication reaches the blood steam; it is not associated with the side affects of aspirin.
The third group contains capsaicin. Products include Capzasin and Sportsmed. Capsaicin works by depleting substance P, a chemical thought to help transmit pain impulses to the brain. Regular application for one to two weeks is needed to reach the full effectiveness of this medication. A burning sensation is associated with the application of these products (capsaicin is derived from chili peppers), but will lessen with repeated use. As with any medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist with any questions regarding therapy.

Steven Collison
North Dakota State University
Pharm.D. Student