How safe are muscle-soothing creams that ease aches and pains, really?
“Over the counter” doesn’t mean “safe under any circumstances.”
Just because products are sold without a prescription and are used topically doesn’t mean they can’t hurt you. After all, your body can absorb almost anything you rub on your skin. The creams, gels, ointments, and adhesive patches sold to soothe sore muscles and joints do contain active ingredients, such as methyl salicylate, a compound similar to aspirin, and they can be overused. In fact, heavy, repeated application can cause toxic levels of the active drugs to build up in your bloodstream, leading to anything from internal bleeding to heart and neurological problems, says Karlis Ullis, MD, medical director of the Sports Medicine, Anti-Aging and Preventive Medical Group in Santa Monica, California. That’s what happened to 17-year-old runner Arielle Newman of New York, who died from a heart problem linked to an accidental overdose of methyl salicylate, the active ingredient in sports creams like Ben-Gay and Icy Hot.
How to smartly, safely use muscle-soothing creams? Don’t apply them and take aspirin (or other salicylate products, like the herb white willow bark) at the same time. Rub a small amount only on limited areas of your body when your skin is cool and dry, not when you’re exercising; moisture and heat can increase absorption, as can covering the creams with bandages or tight clothing. Use the products for no more than five days, and no more than twice a day. And consider relieving soreness in other ways, too: Try stretching, ice packs, or gentle massage.
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