Stopain Topical Pain Reliever Information

Stopain is one of the topical pain relievers available over the counter (OTC). It stands out with its bright red stop sign logo and the product name of Stopain.

With the initial onset of joint pain, some people try to self-treat before consulting a healthcare provider. Typically, they check out what's available in the pain relief section of their local drugstore. There are oral medications, such as Tylenol (acetaminophen), Aleve (naproxen sodium), or Advil (ibuprofen)—and topical treatment options, too. Each of the products is indicated for the relief of pain. It's important for you to understand what's in each product that you are considering and how the product claims to work.

A Bit of History

Stopain was created by a pharmacist in California and marketed locally in 1991. By 1999, it was presented on the QVC channel. The national exposure allowed it to move into its first retail store, Walgreens, in 2000. And now, it can be found in just about any food and drug store across the U.S. Plus, in 2012 the product became available in Canada.

In 2002, DRJ Group (owners of Stopain) selected Troy Manufacturing, Inc. as the sole manufacturer of Stopain. Manufacturing takes place at a plant in Hazleton, Pennsylvania. In 2010, Troy Manufacturing, Inc. bought Stopain from the DRJ Group.

Stopain Ingredients

According to the Stopain website, the active ingredient in Stopain is menthol, which has analgesic (pain-relieving) properties and is used to temporarily relieve minor pain and stiffness associated with arthritis, muscle aches, strains, and backache. Stopain products also contain peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, glucosamine, and MSM, which are also said to have analgesic properties. Depending on the individual user, pain relief from Stopain may last several hours.

Topical analgesics containing menthol are referred to as counterirritants. The products work by causing a burning or cooling sensation which appears to activate pain receptors in your skin (nociceptors) and then desensitize them.

Available Formulations of Stopain

Two formulations of Stopain are sold over the counter. Others must be purchased from a healthcare provider's office.

The OTC products are:

• Stopain Extra Strength Continuous Spray
• Stopain Extra Strength Roll-On

Both of these products contain menthol (8%). They're intended for use in adults and children 12 years and older. They can be applied as needed, up to four times per day.

Stopain Clinical is a line of products that are available only from healthcare providers. You can't buy them online or in retail stores. These products include:

• Stopain Clinical Gel
• Stopain Clinical Roll-On
• Stopain Clinical 360 Continuous Spray

These each contain a stronger concentration of menthol (10%).

In addition, there is a product called Stopain Clinical Migraine and Headache. This is a homeopathic topical gel that contains different ingredients than the other Stopain products and is purported to work in a different way.

Precautions

You should not bandage the affected area tightly after applying Stopain gel, roll-on, or spray. You should not use a heating pad over the area and should not apply the product to open wounds or damaged skin. Avoid getting Stopain in or near your eyes.

According to the Stopain website, you should stop application of the product and consult your healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen, if your symptoms persist for more than 7 days while using the product, or if symptoms recur a few days after disappearing. Also, observe the skin for redness, irritation, or development of a rash while using Stopain. Discontinue use if that occurs. Read all directions before using the product.

A Word From Verywell

There are several different topical pain-relieving products on the market. They are available in creams, ointments, gels, patches and they have different active ingredients. Some of the other products also contain menthol (e.g., Bengay), while others may contain capsaicin (e.g., Zostrix) or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (e.g., Voltaren (diclofenac) gel which is available OTC). Since all topical treatments are not created equal, learn about any product you intend to use.