Camphor / Capsaicin / Menthol
This topical analgesic combines three active ingredients (camphor, capsaicin, and menthol) that work together to provide temporary relief from minor muscle and joint pain. The medication creates a cooling and warming sensation on the skin, which helps distract from pain signals. It is commonly used for conditions such as arthritis, sore muscles, backaches, and sprains.
A topical analgesic cream used for temporary relief of minor muscle and joint pain.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1007618
- Generic
- Camphor / Capsaicin / Menthol
- Class
- multi-ingredient
- Brands
- Cartilade
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Temporarily relieves minor pain associated with arthritis, sore muscles, backaches, strains, sprains, and bruises. Also used for pre-workout muscle warming and post-exercise recovery.
The combination creates a counterirritant effect on the skin. Menthol and camphor produce cooling sensations that activate cold-sensitive nerve receptors, while capsaicin creates a warming sensation by depleting substance P (a pain neurotransmitter) in nerve endings. This sensory distraction helps mask deeper pain signals.
For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and broken or irritated skin. Do not apply heat, tight bandages, or heating pads to treated areas. Wash hands thoroughly after application. Discontinue use if excessive skin irritation, burning, or rash occurs. Not recommended for use in children without medical supervision.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 28, 2026. · Read our editorial policy