Freeze It Uses, Side Effects & Warnings - Drugs.com

Skip to main content
Print
Save

# Freeze It

Generic name: camphor and menthol topical [ KAM-for-and-MEN-thol-TOP-ik-al ]
Brand names: Anti-Itch Steroid Free, Arctic Relief, Avedana Pain Relieving Roll On, Fast Freeze, Freeze It, ... show all 11 brands Men-phor, Mentholatum Ointment, Rhuli Gel, Sarna, Theraflu Vapor Stick, Tiger Balm
Drug class: Topical rubefacient

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Feb 22, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

## What is Freeze It?

Camphor is a mild pain reliever. Menthol provides a cooling sensation when applied to the skin.

Freeze It (for the skin) is a combination medicine used to relieve minor muscle or joint pain. Freeze It may also be used as a chest rub to soothe chest congestion and relieve cough caused by the flu or common cold.

Freeze It may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

## Warnings

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.

## Before taking this medicine

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe to use if you have sensitive skin.

Do not use Freeze It on a baby or young child without a doctor's advice.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

## How should I use Freeze It?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin. Do not use on open wounds or on sunburned, windburned, dry, or irritated skin. Rinse with water if this medicine gets in your eyes or mouth.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine.

For your first use, apply only to a small skin area to test how your skin reacts to the medicine.

Camphor and menthol can cause a burning or cold sensation, which is usually mild and should lessen over time with continued use. If this sensation causes significant discomfort, wash the skin with soap and water.

Do not cover treated skin with a bandage or expose it to heat from a hot tub, heating pad, or sauna.

Do not apply this medicine within 1 hour before or 30 minutes after you take a bath or shower.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if you have a fever with a headache, or a skin rash. Also call your doctor if you still have pain, or if the pain goes away and then comes back within a few days.

Store at room temperature. Keep the medicine tightly closed when not in use.

Detailed Freeze It dosage information

## What happens if I miss a dose?

Since Freeze It is when needed, you are not likely to miss a dose.

## What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of camphor and menthol is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

## What should I avoid while using Freeze It?

If this medication gets in your eyes, nose, or mouth, rinse with water.

## Freeze It side effects

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

Freeze It may cause serious side effects. Stop using Freeze It and call your doctor at once if you have:

- severe burning, stinging, or irritation after using this medicine; or

- breathing problems after using this medicine on the chest or throat.

Less serious side effects may be 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.

Freeze It side effects (more detail)

## What other drugs will affect Freeze It?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use, but many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

## Where can I get more information?

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.

## More about Freeze It (camphor / menthol topical)

- Side effects
- Dosage information
- Drug class: topical rubefacient
- En español

### Patient resources

#### Other brands

Tiger Balm, Sarna, Soltice Quick-Rub, Anti-Itch Steroid Free, ... +8 more

### Related treatment guides

- Cold Symptoms
- Dermatitis
- Pain

## Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 4.01.