menthol topical (oral mucous membrane)

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Pronunciation: MEN thol TOP ik al (OR al MYOO kus MEM brane)

Brand: Cheracol Sore Throat and Cough, Flanax Cough, Halls Mentho-Lyptus Drops, Luden's Honey Lemon Throat Drops, N Ice, Robitussin Cough Drop Cherry, VapoDrops Menthol, Vicks Cough Drop

What is the most important information I should know about menthol topical?

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

What is menthol topical?

Menthol is either manmade or made from the extracts of mint oil. Menthol provides a cooling sensation when applied to the skin or other tissues (such as the tongue, gums, or inside the cheeks).

Menthol topical oral mucous membrane (for use inside the mouth) is used to treat minor sore throat pain, or mouth irritation caused by a canker sore.

Menthol topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using menthol topical?

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to menthol.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially:

  • cough with mucus;
  • cough caused by smoking, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis;
  • a sore throat with fever, headache, swelling, skin rash, or nausea and vomiting; or
  • if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

A menthol lozenge may contain glucose (sugar) or phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using this medicine if you have diabetes or phenylketonuria (PKU).

Do not give this medicine to a baby or young child without a doctor's advice.

How should I use menthol topical?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Do not swallow the menthol lozenge whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth without chewing.

Use a new lozenge every 2 hours or as needed.

Call your doctor if your sore throat is severe or continues for longer than 2 days, especially if you also have a fever, headache, skin rash, swelling, or nausea and vomiting. Stop using and call your doctor if you have a cough that does not improve after 7 days of treatment.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since menthol topical is when needed, you are not likely to miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking menthol topical?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What are the possible side effects of menthol topical?

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious side effects are more likely, and you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect menthol topical?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on menthol topical used inside the mouth. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about menthol topical oral mucous membrane


Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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