As a topical analgesic, Icy Hot is indicated to assist in the reduction of pain and soreness resulting from arthritis, backache, muscle strains, sprains, cramps, and other soft tissue injuries. Of particular concern, however, are recent reports cautioning the use of over-the-counter (OTC) topical muscle and joint pain relievers like Icy Hot. After just one application, patients may significantly increase their risk of experiencing a severe chemical burn. Regulatory officials acknowledged that patients have already been hospitalized with burns that range from first-degree to third-degree.
If you or a loved one has been injured by Icy Hot, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Icy Hot Lawsuit Overview
Icy Hot was produced and marketed by Chattem, now a subsidiary of Sanofi-Aventis. Following its release into the U.S. market, Icy Hot became known for its dual action pain relief, claiming that the topical agent is “icy to dull the pain, and hot to relax it away.” It comes in cream, a balm, a Chill Stick, and 8 cm x 12 cm patches. Recently, IcyHot has come out with sleeves, a Power Gel, Medicated Spray, and No Mess Applicator.
Icy Hot’s main ingredient, menthol, initiates a heat sensation in the area that it is applied to. While there is no actual heat involved, this sensation is the result of nerve stimulation. In response to the warm sensation, blood vessels dilate, causing more blood to flow through the muscle. The increased blood flow carries nutrients that are vital to the muscles recovery and help to repair the damage. Though this process is not permanent, it may provide temporary relief from joint and muscle pain.
While Icy Hot has helped millions of people reduce the presence of unwanted pain and soreness, recent studies suggest the topical analgesic may coincide with serious side effects. Of significant concern, however, are recent reports that indicate OTC topical pain relievers like Icy Hot may cause chemical burns after just one application. According to a Drug Safety Communication issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Icy Hot may cause serious skin injuries, ranging from first- to third-degree chemical burns. Based on those cases reported to the FDA, the majority of second- and third-degree burns occurred with the use of products containing menthol as the single active ingredient. Due to the severity and rate in which these burns may occur, patients may file an Icy Hot lawsuit against Sanofi-Aventis.
Chemical Burns
A chemical burn is irritation and destruction of human tissue caused by exposure to a chemical, usually by direct contact with the chemical or its fumes. Just one Icy Hot application may be enough to result in severe burning or blistering within 24 hours of contact. Prolonged exposure can severely damage human tissues and lead to scarring and disability. Signs and symptoms of a chemical burn may include:
- Redness, irritation, or burning at the site of contact
- Pain or numbness at the site of contact
- Formation of blisters or black dead skin at the contact site
- Vision changes if the chemical gets into the eyes
- Cough or shortness of breath
- Vomiting
FDA Warning
According to a recent FDA Drug Safety Communication, medical literature has identified at least 43 incidents in which patients were burned by topical muscle and joint pain relievers containing the active ingredients menthol, methyl salicylate, or capsaicin. The products associated with these cases include patches, balms, and creams. A search of the FDA’s Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS) database and the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System – Cooperative Adverse Drug Event Surveillance (NEISS-CADES) database acknowledge that the burns suffered by consumers ranged from first-degree to third-degree chemical burns. Furthermore, the majority of the cases saw severe burning or blistering after just one application.
A majority of the second- and third-degree burns were reported with the use of products containing menthol as the single active ingredient or products containing both menthol and methyl salicylate, where the concentration of the ingredients was greater than 3% menthol and 10% methyl salicylate. Few cases reported using a capsaicin-containing product.
Do I Have an Icy Hot Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in Icy Hot lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been injured by Icy Hot, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.