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Icy Hot

Apothyx, Co. · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Icy Hot provides topical pain relief through a combination of counterirritant (menthol) and analgesic (methyl salicylate) agents that create a warming sensation and reduce localized pain perception.

Icy Hot provides topical pain relief through a combination of counterirritant (menthol) and analgesic (methyl salicylate) agents that create a warming sensation and reduce localized pain perception. Used for Minor muscle aches and pains, Minor arthritis pain, Backache.

At a glance

Generic nameIcy Hot
SponsorApothyx, Co.
Drug classTopical counterirritant/analgesic
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaPain Management
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Menthol activates cold-sensitive TRPM8 receptors, creating a cooling sensation that masks pain signals, while methyl salicylate acts as a topical analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent. The counterirritant effect of menthol followed by the warming sensation from other ingredients provides symptomatic relief of minor muscle and joint aches through the gate control theory of pain—where non-painful sensations inhibit pain signal transmission.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results