APPLICATION:
This variation of a topical analgesic that includes a chemical called trolamine salicylate that is a member of the family of medicines called Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). It is available most often as a cream and is applied directly onto the skin.
USES:
Analgesics with this chemical often are used by atheletes who will consistently use pain relievers to delay the presence of pain. This is one of the benefits a user will experience with a topical analgesic containing trolamine salicylate. In addition to this, when the pain finally does arrive (about 12 hours later than for placebo users), the amount of pain experienced is significantly lower than it would be without the analgesic. The amount of time in which the pain is experienced is also lessened.
SAFETY:
Drugs containing methyl solicylate have been voted very safe by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but are not considered to be very effective in relieving pain.
BRAND NAMES:
A few brand names of pain relievers containing methyl salicylate currently offered on the United States market include: Aspercreme, Sportscreme and Myoflex.
APPLICATION:
This type of topical pain reliever is offered as a lotion and is applied directly by rubbing it onto the skin 3-5 times daily. Usually, a user will begin to experience noticeable signs of pain relief after consistent use for 1-2 weeks. If the pain-inflicted person misses an application or two, it will take longer for them to see results.
USES:
These pain relievers are most effective for temporary relief of arthritic pain in joints located close to the surface of the skin (i.e. fingers, knees, elbows). They may also give relief to people experiencing pain from postherpetic neuralgia (post shingles), diabetes, and areas near healed surgical scars.
SAFETY:
Analgesics containing capsaicin are safe and effective, even for long term use. However, some users may experience temporarily irritated skin or a burning senstation around the area of application. It is due to this side effect that the user should always wear rubber gloves for application and take care to avoid the eyes.
BRAND NAMES:
The United States currently offers several topical analgesics that include capsaicin. Some of these include: Capzasin-P, Dolorac, and Zostrix.
