Pain Relief & Topicals

External pain relief without a pharmacy visit: analgesic creams, gels, patches and rubs, plus the lubricating jellies used for catheterization and procedures. The OTC topicals shelf is simple if you know what each active does: methyl salicylate/menthol rubs (Campho-Phenique-type actives) create a cooling-warm counter-irritation good for muscle aches; lidocaine patches and gels are labeled for localized pain (follow label dose limits); capsaicin products are labeled for repeated use over days; salicylate gels are labeled for arthritis-type discomfort.

Rules that stop problems: topical NSAIDs and salicylates go on intact skin only, never with heating pads over them, never near eyes or mucous membranes; if you're on blood thinners or allergic to aspirin, ask your pharmacist before using salicylate products. Lubricating jellies (Surgilube, K-Y clinical) are procedure consumables — sterile packets for catheterization, stocked by box and case for home-health and clinic use.

All strengths and pack sizes on the product pages. Persistent pain is a diagnosis problem, not a supply problem — see your clinician. Questions about products? (614) 654-6591.