Camphor/ethyl Alcohol

General Drug Information and Indications

Topical counterirritant and mild analgesic for musculoskeletal pain in horses; component of liniments and topical preparations. Natural terpene ketone topical agent. Mechanism: counterirritant that activates cutaneous TRPV1 receptors (warm sensation at low concentrations) and TRPM8 receptors (cooling sensation); increases local blood flow; mild analgesic via sensory nerve stimulation; very mild antiseptic. Used in liniments and topical formulations. Key information Topical counterirritant preparation. External use only. Flammable — keep away from heat. Toxic if ingested in large amounts. Avoid contact with eyes. Keep away from cats (camphor toxicity).

How to Give this Medication

Topical liniment: apply to affected area; massage gently. Wear gloves. Avoid mucous membranes, eyes, and open wounds. Do not use in or near the face of small animals or cats. External use only. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next application, skip it and resume the normal schedule. Do not apply extra product to compensate.

Side Effects

Topical: mild skin irritation, contact dermatitis. CNS toxicity if ingested or absorbed in large amounts: seizures, excitement, respiratory depression. Avoid use near face/nostrils in small animals. Toxic to cats.

Precautions

For animals Do not use in cats. — neurologically toxic to cats. Avoid in small animals. Do not use near the face or nostrils. Do not apply to open wounds. For people handling this medication Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Avoid inhaling sprays or aerosols. Keep out of reach of children. Toxic if ingested — especially to children and cats. Keep out of reach of children and cats. Avoid prolonged skin contact.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian. If ingested, camphor causes neurological signs (tremors, seizures). Toxic to cats. Contact your veterinarian, a veterinary emergency clinic, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically directed by a veterinary professional.

Camphor/ethyl Alcohol dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
CAMPHOR/ETHYL ALCOHOL 1.2%/10.6% IN LINSEED OIL - 1 GALLON1.2%/10.6% IN LINSEED OILLiquid1 GALLONCompound
CAMPHOR/ETHYL ALCOHOL 1.2%/10.6% IN LINSEED OIL - 1 PINT1.2%/10.6% IN LINSEED OILLiquid1 PINTCompound

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)