What to Know About Myoflex Cream

Myoflex cream is an over-the-counter topical pain reliever for minor aches and pains from different conditions, including arthritis. It contains trolamine salicylate, a salicylate that inhibits cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes responsible for generating pro-inflammatory factors. Myoflex cream can also be used for inflammation and pain associated with injuries like sprains and fractures, as well as backaches.

Ingredients

It’s essential to know the ingredients in any medication you’re putting in or on your body. There are both active and inactive ingredients in Myoflex cream.

The active ingredient in Myoflex cream is trolamine salicylate 10%.

Inactive ingredients in this topical pain reliever include:

• Aloe vera gel
• Cetyl alcohol
• Glycerin
• DMDM hydantoin
• Methylparaben
• Propylparaben
• Mineral oil
• Stearic acid
• Triethanolamine
• Purified water

How to Use Myoflex

Before using Myoflex cream, it’s a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider. Once cleared to move forward, be sure to use the cream only as instructed. Read the package instructions carefully, and only use externally.

For adults and children 2 years and older, wash your hands and the affected area before applying the cream. Make sure to dry the area well. Apply a thin layer of Myoflex to the affected area up to three times a day. Rub in the medication gently but thoroughly. You may cover the area lightly with a sterile bandage. Do not use heat on the area after the cream is applied.

Wash your hands afterward, but be careful not to wash the cream off the affected area. Be sure to close the medication cap and store the cream at room temperature. Do not use if it’s expired.

If you use Myoflex on a regular basis, put on a missed dose as soon as you think about it. If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal schedule. Be sure not to put on two doses or extra doses. Myoflex is often used on an as-needed basis, but do not use more than directed by your healthcare provider.

Precautions

This medication is for external use only, and it is recommended that you discuss the use of Myoflex cream with a healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting. You should also take note of a few things before using Myoflex to treat your pain.

Aspirin Allergy

If you have an allergy to trolamine, salicylate, aspirin, or any other Myoflex ingredient, consult with your healthcare provider before using this cream. Be sure to tell your practitioner about other allergies you have as well.

Pregnancy

Myoflex cream isn’t recommended for use during pregnancy. Discuss use with your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. The medication shouldn’t be used unless needed and the practitioner says it’s OK, and should be avoided in the last three months of pregnancy.

Children

Myoflex cream is an option for children over 2 years old, but its use in children should be discussed with a healthcare provider to ensure safety and efficacy.

Side Effects

Active ingredients can enter the bloodstream through the skin and produce side effects, even for topical pain relief products like Myoflex. Most people who use Myoflex cream don’t experience serious side effects, but you should call your healthcare provider or seek medical help right away if you have:

• Signs of an allergic reaction
• Irritation over the area where you applied Myoflex
• Redness

Other Pain Creams

Myoflex cream isn’t the only pain cream on the market. Other OTC options for your pain include:

• Dr. Sayman’s Wonder Rub: This medication’s active ingredient is lidocaine HCL 4%. It is used as a topical anesthetic to temporarily relieve minor pain.
• Capzasin HP’s Arthritis Pain Relief Creme: This topical cream is specifically marketed as an arthritis cream. It works by reducing pain signals to the brain. This medication can take up to two months to work.
• Tiger Balm: This over-the-counter medication comes in a cream, gel, or liquid. It is a popular remedy for arthritis pain, as well as back pain and pain associated with sprains and stiffness.
• Arnica gel: Arnica gel is a plant-based remedy for pain and sore muscles. While it is a natural remedy, it has been shown to improve muscle aches, joint pain, and arthritis pain.

There are a few options for prescription creams to treat arthritis, including:

• Voltaren: This is an FDA-approved diclofenac sodium 1% gel, also available in 3%. It is prescribed for joint pain and works best on small joints.
• Pennsaid: This prescription is a diclofenac sodium 1.5% liquid that also comes as a 2% liquid. It is commonly used for osteoarthritis knee pain.

A Word From Verywell

It’s tempting to use a topical pain relief medication like Myoflex cream to ease annoying pain. For those living with arthritis pain, adding a topical pain relief cream to their pain management regimen sounds like a no-brainer.

There are, however, side effects and potential allergic reactions associated with the use of this cream. Be sure to thoroughly discuss the risks and benefits of using Myoflex cream with your healthcare provider or pharmacist. In some instances, this cream may not be right for you or you can benefit from a different cream.