Icy Hot: Can I use too much?

Is it possible to use too much Icy Hot or other over-the-counter muscle creams? What happens if you do?

- No name / No state given

Answer

Icy Hot is an over-the-counter product applied directly to the skin to relieve sore or aching muscles. Icy Hot is thought to dull pain by stimulating nerves in the affected area with sensations of heat and cold. Methyl salicylate, a chemical relative of aspirin, is one of the main ingredients in most forms of Icy Hot and many other over-the-counter muscle creams. Methyl salicylate can be toxic if used excessively or in concentrated amounts. Deaths from methyl salicylate poisoning are rare, but possible. If you use Icy Hot or another over-the-counter muscle cream, keep safe use in mind. Carefully follow the instructions printed on the product label to avoid an overdose.