Salonpas Pain Relief Patch – 3 Medicated Plasters

Salonpas Pain Relief Patch is a medicated plaster containing methyl salicylate 10% w/w and levomenthol 3% w/w, applied to the skin for the symptomatic relief of muscle and joint pain associated with strains and sprains, sold by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

Key facts

Who it is for

• Adults aged 18 and over with localised muscle or joint pain from a strain or sprain
• People who want a stick-on plaster they can wear during the day rather than a rub-on gel
• People who prefer a topical option to oral painkillers for a specific painful area

Not suitable for: children and teenagers under 18; anyone allergic to any active or inactive component of the plaster; and use on open wounds, irritated skin, the eyes or mucous membranes. Speak to your pharmacist or doctor first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have an underlying medical condition or take other medicines.

How to use

1. Read the patient information leaflet before you start.
2. Clean and dry the affected area, then remove the plastic film from the plaster.
3. Apply the adhesive side directly to the skin over the painful area, using one plaster at a time.
4. Leave in place for up to 8 to 12 hours. If pain recurs after removal, a second plaster may be applied.
5. Do not use more than 2 plasters a day, and do not use for more than 3 days in a row.

Frequently asked questions

How long can I leave a Salonpas patch on?

Apply one plaster to the painful area and leave it in place for up to 8 to 12 hours. If the pain returns after that, you can apply a second plaster, but use only one at a time and no more than 2 plasters a day.

How does the Salonpas patch work?

The plaster delivers methyl salicylate and levomenthol through the skin at the painful site. These produce a soothing, slightly cooling sensation that helps relieve the muscle and joint pain of strains and sprains.

Where should I not apply the patch?

Do not apply it to open wounds, irritated or broken skin, the eyes or mucous membranes. If you get contact dermatitis, a rash or flushing where the plaster sits, stop using it and speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Can children use Salonpas patches?

No. This product is not for use in children or teenagers under 18 years of age. For younger people, ask your pharmacist about a suitable alternative.

Additional contraindications

Do not use if painkillers such as aspirin or other NSAIDs have caused asthma or allergy, with similar pain-relief medicines without advice, if you have had severe heart disease, severe kidney or liver problems, a bleeding ulcer or bleeding disorder, or during the final three months of pregnancy. Breastfeeding use is not recommended; seek medical advice. Do not cut a patch. These restrictions are in addition to the age and skin restrictions above.

Safety & storage

• For external use only. Use one plaster at a time, no more than 2 a day, and for no more than 3 days in a row.
• Do not apply to open wounds, irritated skin, the eyes or mucous membranes.
• Stop if you develop contact dermatitis, eczema, a rash or any unusual skin reaction.
• Do not use after the expiry date, or more than 3 months after first opening the pouch.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children, and seek advice if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have allergies.

References

• NHS — Sprains and strains
• Hisamitsu UK — Salonpas directions and safety FAQs

This page provides factual information about an over-the-counter medicated plaster. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If symptoms persist or you are unsure whether this product is right for you, speak to a pharmacist. Suspected side effects can be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.