Liniments Topical: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (2024)

If you are using the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read and follow all directions on the product package before using this medication. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, use it as directed.

This medication is for use on the skin only. Apply to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times a day. If you are using the cream, gel, or liquid, rub in gently and thoroughly. Some liquid forms of this medication should be shaken before use. Check the manufacturer's information for specific directions. Let the medicine dry completely before letting anyone else touch the area.

Wash your hands well after applying unless you are using this medication to treat the hands. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water.

Do not apply to serious burns or deep wounds. Do not bandage or tightly wrap the affected area. Doing so may increase the risk of side effects. You may cover the area loosely to protect clothing.

Heat can increase the risk of side effects. Do not apply this medication right before, during, or after activities that increase skin temperature (such as bathing, swimming, heavy exercise). Wait until your skin has cooled before applying the medication. Do not use a sunlamp/tanning bed, hot water bottle, or heating pad/device on the treated area.

Check the ingredients on the label even if you have used the product before. The manufacturer may have changed the ingredients. Also, products with similar names may contain different ingredients meant for different purposes. Read the label carefully to make sure you have the right product for you. Ask your pharmacist if you have any questions.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts for more than 7 days, or if it gets worse, or if it keeps returning. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Liniments Topical: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (2024)

FAQs

What are the possible harmful effects of using the liniment? ›

Redness, mild itching, or irritation at the application site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.

What are the disadvantages of liniments? ›

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What precautions should be taken during application of liniment? ›

General Precautions
  • Use Precautions: Use only as directed.
  • For external use only.
  • Discontinue use if skin irritation develops and contact your veterinarian. For animal use only, not for human use.
  • Keep out of reach of children.
Apr 14, 2020

What are examples of liniments drugs? ›

Basic Lotions and Liniments
DrugTargetType
CamphorTransient receptor potential cation channel subfamily M member 8target
CapsaicinCytochrome P450 3A4enzyme
CapsaicinProstaglandin G/H synthase 2enzyme
CapsaicinMyeloperoxidaseenzyme
18 more rows

Is liniment good for nerve pain? ›

Sloan's Liniment is used for temporary relief of muscle or joint pain caused by strains, sprains, arthritis, bruising, or backaches. This medicine is also used to treat nerve pain (neuralgia) in people who have had herpes zoster, or "shingles."

What are the side effects of rub rub ointment? ›

Stop using this medication and tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: blistering/swelling/severe redness at the application site, increased/unusual pain at the application site, nausea/vomiting, ringing in the ears. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.

What are the side effects of topical ointment? ›

These reactions may include burning, crusting, dryness, flaking, itching, oozing, pain, redness, sores or ulcers, or swelling.

What are the two kinds of liniment? ›

Liniments are used for their antipruritic, astringent, emollient, analgesic, rubefacient, and counterirritant properties. There are two main types - alcoholic liniments that penetrate the skin more readily and oleaginous liniments that are milder but better for massage.

What are the disadvantages of topical ointment? ›

Disadvantages of topical formulations include:
  • They can be time-consuming to apply.
  • At times, the regimen can be complicated, especially if several different formulations have been prescribed.
  • The applications may also be messy or uncomfortable.

What must you never use to apply a topical medication? ›

Never use your bare fingers to apply ointments, lotions or liniments. Do not discard gloves and supplies in areas accessible to clients. Directions for application of the medication should be a part of the physician's order or included with the instructions accompanying the medication.

Which of the following should you not do when applying a topical medication? ›

5. Never Apply to Broken or Irritated Skin. Unless indicated, topical medicine should never be applied on broken or irritated skin. This is when the body tissues are exposed, and it will cause more harm than the actual healing.

What were the possible harmful effects of using the liniment? ›

According to the drug instructions, adverse effects of this liniment are all topical reactions, such as rash, redness, swelling, itching, pain, ulcers, and paresthesia.

Is liniment safe for humans? ›

Many horse liniment formulas in diluted form have been used on humans, though products for horses which contain DMSO are not suitable for human use, as DMSO carries the topical product into the bloodstream.

What is the best pain liniment? ›

The 11 best pain relieving creams of 2024, according to pain management experts
  • More options. Biofreeze Professional Strength Pain Relief Gel. ...
  • Tiger Balm Ultra Strength Pain Relieving Ointment. ...
  • More options. ...
  • Rud A535 Maximum Strength Heating Cream. ...
  • More options. ...
  • Humble CBD Comfort Bar Topical Balm. ...
  • Dr. ...
  • More options.
Mar 28, 2024

What happens if you use horse liniment? ›

"The cooling effect of liniment and liniment gel helps bring down the heat in overworked and sore muscles. It helps draw out inflammation and allows muscles to recover." Oliver explains that daily use of liniment after workout may shorten the time needed for warmup the next day with a fit horse.

What are the effects of topical analgesics? ›

Topical analgesics like lidocaine, capsaicin, and topical diclofenac can provide local pain relief. Lidocaine blocks sodium ion channels required for initiation and conduction of neuronal impulses, and topical application may provide analgesic effects to intact integument.

What are the side effects of veterinary liniment gel? ›

Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.

What are the side effects of doil liniment? ›

Side Effects of Doil are Nausea, Headache, Dizziness, Vomiting, Flatulence, Constipation, Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Dyspepsia, Gastrointestinal bleeding, Gastrointestinal ulcer, Rash, Application site irritation, Injection site pain.

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