Patient leaflet - Algesal
1. What the medicine is for
Algesal is a cream which contains diethylamine salicylate, a local analgesic to relieve the pain of rheumatic and minor muscular conditions including lumbago, fibrositis, sciatica, bruises and strains.
2. Before you use this medicine
Do not use the medicine if ….
- You are allergic to any of the ingredients listed in section 6.
- You are allergic to aspirin or medicines like aspirin.
The surface of the skin is broken. • A child is under 6 years old or has a history of convulsions (fits).
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are….
- Asthmatic.
Elderly, as using too much could cause agitation and confusion.
Warnings and Precautions
Do not smoke or go near naked flames - risk of severe burns. Fabric (clothing, bedding, dressings etc) that has been in contact with this product burns more easily and is a serious fire hazard. Washing clothing and bedding may reduce product build-up but not totally remove it.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking ….
- Medicines used to prevent blood clotting such as warfarin, as the anti-clotting effects could be increased by using Algesal.
- Methotrexate used to treat severe rheumatoid arthritis or certain cancers, as using Algesal could lead to toxic levels of methotrexate in the blood.
Any other medicines including those bought without prescription.
Pregnant or breastfeeding….
Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before using this medicine if you are pregnant, might be pregnant or are breastfeeding. Algesal should not be used in pregnancy or breastfeeding unless the doctor has told you to do so.
Important information about some of the ingredients
This medicine contains fragrance with d-limonene and linalool, which may cause allergic reactions.
3. How to use this medicine
Apply it to the skin.
Adults, the elderly and children over 6
- Apply a small amount to the affected area and massage until the cream is fully absorbed. • Always try Algesal on a small area of skin first.
- Always use sparingly.
- Avoid contact with eyes and sensitive areas of the skin.
Apply 3 times a day to the affected area. • Wash hands well after use.
Children under 6 years
Not recommended.
If your symptoms worsen or have not improved after 7 days of treatment, you should ask your doctor for advice.
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If you use too much or swallow some
If you accidentally apply Algesal to a large area of skin and you feel unwell see a doctor straight away.
Use on large areas of the skin may cause too much to be absorbed and make you feel agitated and confused.
Also see a doctor if you accidentally swallow some. Take the pack with you to show which medicine you have swallowed.
4. Possible side effects
Like all medicines, Algesal can have side effects, which are usually mild, although these don’t affect everyone.
- Temporary skin reactions such as redness, a burning sensation and rashes may occur. • You may experience discomfort if used in hot weather or after a hot bath or if you have sensitive skin.
If you notice excessive skin irritation or any other side effect not included above, stop use and tell your doctor or pharmacist. They will tell you what to do.
Reporting of side effects
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for ‘MHRA Yellow Card’ in the Google Play or Apple App Store.
By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
5. Storing this medicine
- Keep it out of the sight and reach of children. • Do not store above 25°C.
- Do not use after the expiry date shown on the carton. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
- Medicine should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of any unused medicine. These measures will help to protect the environment.
6. Further information What is in this medicine
The active ingredient is: diethylamine salicylate 10% w/w.
The other ingredients are: ethylene glycol stearate, glycerol monostearate, stearic acid, triethanolamine, petrolatum, light liquid paraffin, microcrystalline wax, Lavandin composition (Contains D-Limonene & Linalool), purified water.
What the medicine looks like
Algesal is an off-white cream which has a lavender scent.
It is supplied in 50g and 100g tubes. Marketing authorisation holder and manufacturer
Thornton and Ross Ltd., Huddersfield, HD7 5QH, UK.
This leaflet was last revised in August 2020
Algesal is a registered trade mark of Thornton and Ross Ltd.
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