Camphor + Menthol + Phenol, Topical

What is camphor + menthol + phenol, topical?

Camphor + menthol + phenol, topical (Scarlett Oil Pump Spray®) is an over-the-counter product used to treat superficial skin wounds, cuts, and burns in horses and mules.

There are also several over-the-counter products that contain menthol, phenol, or camphor for application to the skin of horses to treat overexertion, soreness, or stiffness, including a variety of liniments (e.g., white liniment, Choate’s liniment) and gels (e.g., Cool Gel®, Ice-O-Gel®, Shin-O-Gel®).

Camphor + menthol + phenol, topical, can be found as an over-the-counter product to treat cold sores and fever blisters on the face, in humans.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health products (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health products must ensure their products are safe and labeled accurately. The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” Health Canada licenses “veterinary health products” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These products are not tested by Health Canada.

Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health products in pets. Just because a product is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy.

Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it also may be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.

How is camphor + menthol + phenol, topical given?

Camphor + menthol + phenol, topical, comes as a liquid spray or gel product.
Follow your veterinarian’s directions for application.
Do not apply camphor + menthol + phenol, topical near the eyes.
Humans with known hypersensitivity to any of the medicines found in this product should not handle it.
Avoid ingestion; contact your physician immediately if accidental ingestion occurs.
Gloves are recommended when applying these medicated products.
Wash your hands after applying the medication.

This medication should take effect within 1-2 hours and improvement in clinical signs should follow.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Camphor + menthol + phenol, topical may cause the following side effects:

redness or inflammation at the site of application

Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment. Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.

This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although the effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

This medication should NOT BE USED in cats.
This medication should be USED IN CAUTION in horses that have deep or puncture wounds or serious burns.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Certain medications may interact with camphor + menthol + phenol, topical, so it is important to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your dog is taking before starting any new treatment. There are no known drug interactions for this medication.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any side effects occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.
If redness, irritation, or swelling persists or increases, discontinue use and consult a veterinarian.
Your veterinarian may want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.

How do I store camphor + menthol + phenol, topical?

Store this medication in the original, tightly sealed container.
Store at room temperature, away from heat.
Keep the container out of reach of children and pets.
Ask your veterinarian for disposal instructions. Do not flush medicines down the sink or toilet unless instructed to do so.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.