Have you ever used Icy Hot, Ben Gay or Tiger Balm? These are liniments we typically use to treat muscle soreness and muscle cramps. In a report from the Associated Press, a young, seventeen-year-old woman named Arielle Newman died from an overdose of methyl salicylate. That’s an ingredient found in these medicinal liniments. She put the cream on her legs using long adhesive pads because she was sore.
Newman ran high school track. Her muscle aches and pains were just a part of the training regimen that she engaged in to keep herself fit and in peak condition. The New York City medical examiner’s office rules the death an accidental overdose of methyl salicylate. It was the first death of its kind in New York City.
Misusing Products
My heart aches for the family of this young woman. Methyl salicylate has been around for many years and it can be found in many over the counter products used to treat muscle soreness. Newman’s death indicates the need for more warnings so that users realize that you can overuse methyl salicylate products. According to Dr. Thomas Kearney, a poison control director, applying a sports cream containing methyl salicylate to more than 40% of the body can be hazardous and cause an adverse reaction.
Arielle Newman used the sports cream along with adhesive pads. This is considered a misuse of the product. If you run regularly and competitively, muscle soreness is a familiar pain. Newman was a cross-country runner. According to the medical examiner, the methyl salicylate, and an anti-inflammatory and a third unidentified product that were used excessively.
It’s important to note that Newman did not die from this application, but from repeated applications and absorption over time – so the effect was cumulative. Johnson & Johnson, the corporation behind BenGay, issued a statement expressing sympathy for the family. They also stated that their product
is safe and effective when used as directed to provide relief from minor arthritis pain, sore, aching and strained muscles and backaches
You should stop using these products if the conditions worse or symptoms persist for more than 7 days, according to most of the labels. The labels also advise you to keep the products away from children. The FDA is investigating whether the warning labels for methyl salicylate should be changed.
Arielle Newman’s death is a cautionary tale. Be aware of how you are using sports creams and have a care with mixing the products up with other anti-inflammatory products. If you don’t know the answer, check with your pharmacist or your physician.
Related Articles:
In the News: Radio Station Staff Fired
Personally, It’s About Darn Time … Milan is Barring Ultra-Skinny Models
Fitness Tax: Personal Health Investment Today Act