Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
This product is employed to alleviate minor aches and pains in the muscles and joints, including conditions such as arthritis, backache, and sprains. Menthol and methyl salicylate, present in the product, are classified as counterirritants. They operate by inducing sensations of coolness and warmth on the skin. These sensory effects divert attention from the deeper aches and pains within the muscles, joints, and tendons, providing relief.
Uses and Dosage
This medication is designed for topical use only on the skin. Avoid application near the eyes, mouth, nose, or genital areas, and take care not to touch those regions while the medication is on your hands. If accidental contact occurs, flush the affected areas with plenty of water. Ensure you wash your hands thoroughly before inserting contact lenses.
If you are using the lotion, spray, or foam, shake the bottle well before application.
Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times a day. Gently and thoroughly rub it in. After applying the medication, wash your hands unless you are using it to treat the hands. If treating the hands, wait at least 30 minutes after application before washing your hands.
Avoid applying this medication to injured or irritated skin (such as cuts, scrapes, or sunburn). Do not bandage or tightly wrap the affected area, as doing so may increase the risk of side effects. It is permissible to loosely cover the area to protect clothing; consult your pharmacist for more details.
Heat can heighten the risk of side effects. Refrain from applying this medication immediately before, during, or after activities that increase skin temperature (such as bathing in hot water, swimming, sunbathing, or heavy exercise) or in hot/humid weather. Wait until your skin has cooled before applying the medication. Do not use a sunlamp/tanning bed, hot water bottle, or heating pad on the treated area.
This product is available in various strengths and formulations with similar-sounding names. Read the label carefully to ensure you have the correct product. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- redness
- itchiness
- stinging or burning sensations
- skin irritation
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- breathing difficulties
- hives
- facial swelling
Caution
- Before using this product, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to menthol or methyl salicylate, aspirin, or other salicylates (such as salsalate), or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may trigger allergic reactions or other issues.
- If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product: asthma, nasal polyps (growths in the nose).
- This drug contains a salicylate, similar to aspirin. Children and teenagers under 18 years old should avoid using this product if they have chickenpox, flu, any undiagnosed illness, or if they have recently received a vaccine. In such cases, the use of aspirin or aspirin-like products increases the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious illness.
- Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. This medication may harm an unborn baby and cause issues with normal labor and delivery. Its use is not recommended during pregnancy from 20 weeks until delivery. If your doctor determines that you need to use this medication between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy, it should be at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Avoid using this medication after 30 weeks of pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is unknown if this product passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Tiger Balm Ultra is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Tiger Balm Ultra balm:
- camphor and menthol topical balm:
FAQ
How long does Tiger Balm take to work?
After about 15 minutes, there should be a reduction in pain.
Can you put Tiger Balm on your face?
No. Tiger Balm products should never be used on the face or rashes, on wounds or on damaged skin.
Resources
- https://www.tigerbalm.com/ca/frequently-asked-questions-about-tiger-balm-uses/#:~:text=No.,Tiger%20Balm%20for%20optimal%20effectiveness
- https://www.healthline.com/health/tiger-balm-uses#side-effects
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-tiger-balm-2552293
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-178184/tiger-balm-methyl-salicylate-menthol-topical/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/tiger-balm.html
