How to Obtain Biofreeze
Biofreeze is an over-the-counter topical analgesic product containing menthol that can be purchased without a prescription at pharmacies, drugstores, online retailers, and through healthcare providers' offices.
Product Information
- Biofreeze is a commercially available topical menthol gel manufactured by Performance Health Inc., Export, PA 1
- The standard formulation contains 3.5% menthol as the active ingredient 2
- Menthol acts as a topical counter-irritant by activating TRPM8 channels, producing a cooling sensation and reducing pain through both peripheral and central analgesic pathways 3, 4
Where to Purchase
- Retail pharmacies and drugstores: Available on shelves in the pain relief or topical analgesic section without requiring a prescription 5
- Online retailers: Can be ordered through various e-commerce platforms and the manufacturer's website
- Healthcare provider offices: Chiropractors, physical therapists, and other practitioners often stock and sell Biofreeze directly to patients 1
- Medical supply stores: Specialty stores that carry rehabilitation and pain management products
Clinical Applications
- Biofreeze has demonstrated efficacy for acute low back pain when combined with chiropractic adjustments, showing significant pain reduction after each week of treatment 1
- The product has shown effectiveness for masticatory myofascial pain syndrome, with improvements in pain scores and mouth opening comparable to superficial heat therapy 2
- Menthol's mechanism involves counter-irritation by initially stimulating nociceptors and then desensitizing them, while also activating central analgesic pathways 3
Typical Usage Instructions
- Apply to the affected area 2-3 times daily as needed for pain relief 1, 2
- The cooling effect is acute and short-lived, requiring repeated applications throughout the day 5
- No prescription or special authorization is required for purchase or use
Important Considerations
- At high concentrations, menthol may generate cold allodynia (painful cold sensation) 3
- The favorable effects are limited to the duration of use, with benefits diminishing after discontinuation 2
- Menthol is widely recognized as safe for topical use and has been used as a non-opioid pain reliever since ancient times 3, 4