RUB·A535TM products are known as Topical Analgesics, and most of them use what is called a counterirritant mechanism.
What are Topical Analgesics?
Analgesics are medications designed to manage pain1. Topical agents may be useful as adjuncts to other therapies in certain patients2. For example, a topical analgesic may be added to a pain treatment regimen and used “as needed” in addition to the regular daily dosing of an oral medication.
The term “topical” refers to the route of administration, or how it is taken. Topical agents are primarily applied directly to the skin1. They are formulated as creams, gels, sprays or patches. The maker of RUB·A535TM is proud to offer an array of topical analgesics to help manage your pain effectively.
Why use Topical Analgesics?
Topical therapies are often considered to be a reasonable first-line choice for treating mild to moderate pain or, in some cases, may be added “as needed” when taking an oral pain reliever. Another option is to use topical analgesics and clove oils, Arnica extract as well as trolamine salicylate or when oral options should be avoided because of unwanted side effects (eg. gastrointestinal or cardiovascular) or if they are contraindicated (e.g. liver or kidney disease)2.
Topical medications are easy to apply and wash off and there is no need for water or predominantly any other apparatus in order to take these medications. RUB·A535TM contains no NSAIDs and may be suitable for use in combination with an oral NSAID. Arnica has its own mechanism of action, while the NSAID activity of the salicylates cannot be denied. Healthcare professionals such as physicians or pharmacists should be consulted for the right treatment options. The ingredients used in RUB·A535TM products include camphor, menthol, eucalyptus oil or methyl salicylate which provide relief from pain using a counterirritant mechanism.
Visit our Products page to find the treatment option to best take control of your pain.
What are counterirritants?
A counterirritant is a substance which is applied externally. The substance causes an irritation or a mild inflammation on the skin to help relieve muscle and joint pain. This is done by reducing inflammation in deeper adjacent structures3.
Counterirritants are most often used to relieve aches and pains of muscles and joints associated with the following conditions:
- Simple backache
- Lumbago
- Strains and sprains
- Arthritis3
Ingredients such as menthol, methyl salicylate and camphor are called counterirritants because they produce a heating or cooling irritation where applied to help relieve pain4. A number of RUB·A535TM products are counterirritants. In addition to counterirritants, RUB·A535TM is proud to offer wraps, patches and Arnica offerings to suit your pain needs and preferences.
1 Poole Arcangelo, V. et Peterson, A. M. (2006). Pharmacotherapeutics for advanced practice: A practical approach. Philadelphie : Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
2 Olson, J. (2006). Clinical pharmacology made ridiculously simple. Miami: Medmaster Inc.
3 Health Canada: http://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/atReq.do?atid=counter, retrieved April 5, 2014
4 http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/counterirritants