General MedicineOTC AvailablePregnancy Cat. Not classifiedFDA Yes
Mentholatum
METHYL SALICYLATE, DL-MENTHOL
■ Adults and children 2 years of age and older: apply to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily ■ children under 2 years of age: consult a doctor
Medically reviewed by MedCentralHub Medical Review Board, Licensed Pharmacists & Physicians ·
Brand names:Mentholatum
Quick Reference
Medicine ClassGeneral Medicine
FDA ApprovedYes
PregnancyCategory Not classified
Quick Facts
- Active ingredient
- METHYL SALICYLATE, DL-MENTHOL
- Medicine class
- General Medicine
- Brand names
- Mentholatum
- Availability
- Over-the-counter (OTC)
- Pregnancy category
- Not classified
- FDA approved
- Yes
What Is Mentholatum?
■ Adults and children 2 years of age and older: apply to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily ■ children under 2 years of age: consult a doctor
Mentholatum (METHYL SALICYLATE, DL-MENTHOL) belongs to the General Medicine class of medications. It was first approved by the FDA in Yes. This medication is available over-the-counter without a prescription.
Key Safety Information
- •Always follow the dose recommended by your healthcare professional. Taking more than prescribed increases the risk of side effects including serious complications.
- •Seek emergency care if you experience signs of an allergic reaction — hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or rash. Stop the medication and call your doctor immediately.
- •Some medications can increase the risk of cardiovascular events. Tell your doctor if you have high blood pressure, a history of heart attack or stroke, or any pre-existing health condition.
- •Avoid or limit alcohol while taking Mentholatum. Do not drink alcohol without first discussing it with your healthcare provider as it may increase adverse effects.
- •Take Mentholatum with food or a full glass of water if stomach upset occurs. Stop use and talk to your doctor if you experience persistent stomach pain or GI symptoms.
- •Tell your doctor about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you take. Some combinations significantly increase the risk of harm.
This is a summary only. Always read the full prescribing information and consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.
Uses & Indications
Mentholatum is prescribed for the following conditions. Some uses are FDA-approved indications; others may be evidence-based off-label uses. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
■ Adults and children 2 years of age and older: apply to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily ■ children under 2 years of age: consult a doctor
Dosage Guide
The following are general dosing guidelines only. Your actual dose should be determined by your healthcare provider based on your condition, renal/hepatic function, and other medications.
AD
Adult Dosage
topocal use
Available Forms
Available Strengths
Side Effects
Common
Serious
- Warnings For external use only.
- Flammable ■ Keep away from fire, flame, sparks and heated surfaces.
- Tight cap firmly.
- Stop use and ask a doctor if ■ Condition worsens or symptoms persist for more than 7days or clear up and occur again within a few days When using this product ■ Use only as direct ■ Avoid contact with eyes ■ Do not apply to wounds or damaged skin ■ Do not bandage tightly If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use Keep out of reach of childre
Rare
Medicine Interactions
Always inform your healthcare provider and pharmacist about ALL medications you take, including prescriptions, OTC medicines, vitamins, and supplements.
MajorModerateMinor
Warnings & Contraindications
Warnings For external use only. Flammable ■ Keep away from fire, flame, sparks and heated surfaces. Tight cap firmly. Stop use and ask a doctor if ■ Condition worsens or symptoms persist for more than 7days or clear up and occur again within a few days When using this product ■ Use only as direct ■ Avoid contact with eyes ■ Do not apply to wounds or damaged skin ■ Do not bandage tightly If pregnan
How Mentholatum Works
Pharmacokinetics
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
Not classified
Breastfeeding
Many medications pass into breast milk in varying amounts. Before using Mentholatumwhile breastfeeding, discuss the benefits and risks with your healthcare provider or pharmacist — they can weigh your dose, your infant's age, and available lactation safety data to find the safest option for you and your baby.
Storage & Handling
Store at room temperature. Keep away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Frequently Asked Questions
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- Detail
Mentholatum dosage guide
Adult, pediatric, renal, and hepatic dosing for Mentholatum
- Detail
Mentholatum side effects
Complete adverse effect profile including common, serious, and rare reactions
Sources & References
- • FDA Prescribing Information — Official labeling and package insert for Mentholatum
- • U.S. National Library of Medicine — MedlinePlus drug information
- • American Hospital Formulary Service (AHFS) — Clinical pharmacology monograph
- • PubMed / MEDLINE — View clinical studies
Last reviewed by MedCentralHub Medical Review Board · MedCentralHub Editorial Policy
Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist, or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.