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Camphor/menthol lotion is used topically (on the skin) to help relieve pain and itching from minor burns, cuts, scrapes, insect bites, and rashes. Some formulations can also be used to help relieve minor aches and pains from arthritis, sprains, and strains. Combination camphor and menthol are also available in many different forms (e.g., lotion, gel, cream, ointment) and as lower-cost generics that can be bought over the counter without a prescription.
What is Camphor/menthol lotion?
What is Camphor/menthol lotion used for?
Temporary relief of pain or itching from:
Minor burns
Sunburn
Minor cuts
Scrapes
Insect bites
Skin irritations and rashes from poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac
Minor muscle or joint pains (e.g., arthritis, backaches, bruises, strains, sprains)
How Camphor/menthol lotion works
Camphor/menthol lotion is a combination medication.
Camphor is a topical pain medication that causes a cooling, then warming sensation. It eases pain by making your nerves less sensitive to pain and itching.
Menthol is also a topical pain medication. It works by causing a cooling sensation that makes the nerves on your skin less sensitive to pain and itching.
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What are the side effects of Camphor/menthol lotion?
Common Side Effects
- Skin reactions: dryness, redness, burning, discoloration
Source: DailyMed
The following side effects have also been reported
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
Pros and cons of Camphor/menthol lotion
Pros
Available over the counter
Lotion is easy to apply and doesn't feel greasy
Two medications combined into one product to help with pain or itching
Can be used on children (depending on age)
Cons
Not meant for long-term use
Have to ask provider if it's safe to use on children since it depends on their age
Other medications with the same ingredients used for different conditions might be confusing
Can only use on the outside of your body (i.e., on your skin)
Pharmacist tips for Camphor/menthol lotion
To use camphor/menthol lotion, hold the cap tightly and turn the pump counter-clockwise to open the bottle.
Apply camphor/menthol lotion on the outside of your body only (i.e., your skin). Don't use this medication on broken, damaged, or irritated areas.
Avoid getting camphor/menthol lotion into your eyes, since this can cause irritation.
Some camphor and menthol products have warnings against covering the application area with a bandage. This is because doing so might lead to more skin irritations. Check with your provider if you're not sure how to use your product.
If your symptoms don't improve after 7 days of using camphor/menthol lotion, get worse, or get better and come back again, stop using camphor/menthol lotion and contact your provider. These might be signs that your condition needs more medical attention.
Keep camphor/menthol lotion away from children. If you or someone you know accidentally swallows camphor/menthol lotion, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away at (800) 222-1222.
Frequently asked questions about Camphor/menthol lotion
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What are the risks and warnings for Camphor/menthol lotion?
Camphor/menthol lotion can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Use only on your skin
Camphor/menthol lotion should only be used on your skin. Don’t put it in your eyes, nose, mouth, ears, or genitals. If this medication is swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away by calling (800) 222-1222.
Camphor/menthol lotion dosage forms
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 222ml of 0.5%/0.5% | 1 pump | $10.62 | $10.62 |
Typical dosing for Camphor/menthol lotion
Camphor/menthol is available in many different forms besides lotion, such as gel, ointment, and cream. It also comes in different strengths and used for different conditions. Make sure you follow the instructions on the package for the product you're using. A few examples of typical dosing are listed below.
Lotion containing 0.5% camphor and 0.5% menthol:
Adults and children 2 years and older: Apply to the affected area(s) up to 3 to 4 times daily.
Children under 2 years old: Ask your child's provider.
Gel containing 4% camphor and 10% menthol:
Adults and children 12 years and older: Apply to the affected area(s) up to 3 to 4 times daily.
Children under 12 years old: Ask your child's provider.
How much does Camphor/menthol lotion cost?
What are alternatives to Camphor/menthol lotion?
Temporary relief of pain or itching from:
Minor burns
Sunburn
Minor cuts
Scrapes
Insect bites
Skin irritations and rashes from poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac
Minor muscle or joint pains (e.g., arthritis, backaches, bruises, strains, sprains)
Minor burns
Sunburn
Minor cuts or scrapes
Insect bites
Rash from poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac
Skin irritation
Hemorrhoids
Minor burns
Sunburns
Minor cuts
Scrapes
Insect bites
Minor skin irritations
Joint and muscle pain
Hemorrhoids and other irritations in the anal area
Tattoos, piercings, microblading, and other skin procedures
Camphor/menthol lotion images
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