Is Bengay Safe: Whats in It?
Depending upon the formulation, Bengay products are a combination of menthol, camphor and methyl salicylate, a metabolite of aspirin. Its the methyl salicylate component that experts blamed for the death of this young runner.
Like aspirin, methyl salicylate is an anti-inflammatory compound that decreases pain and inflammation. When you use Bengay, the methyl-salicylate penetrates into the sore muscle and reduces inflammation. The menthol also cools the area, which helps to mask pain. Ideally, the action of Bengay would only affect the muscle to which its applied, but some systemic absorption occurs.
The girl who died from a Bengay overdose had high levels of methyl salicylate in her bloodstream after using Bengay rub as well as several other methyl-salicylate creams. Some systemic absorption of salicylate takes place when you apply the cream, but the amount is small.
In this tragic case, investigators discovered the girl had been using substantial amounts of metyl-salicylate creams over extended periods of time, which is not the way most people use it. This is the only documented case of death from a Bengay overdose.
Salicylate Poisoning and Bengay Rub
According to Prescribers Letter, Bengay is safe when you use it in small amounts, and with reasonable use its unlikely to cause problems. They warn that people who are on blood thinners shouldnt use Bengay, because the methyl-salicylates increase the risk of bleeding.
Its also not advisable to apply Bengay over open wounds or around the eyes - and dont apply heat after putting it on. Using Bengay rub with heat or with a restrictive covering on top increases systemic absorption and the risk of toxicity. Its also not a good idea to use Bengay for more than a few days and to use the smallest amount possible.
Is Bengay Safe: The Bottom Line?
Bengay is safe when used in modest amounts for short periods of time, but keep it out of the hands of children.
References:
Prescribers Letter. June 21, 2007.
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