Menovazin: what it is used for, how it works and when it helps

Menovazin is a versatile “cooling” solution that relieves pain, itching, and inflammation within minutes, so it deserves a place in every home medicine cabinet. The product is most often used in five situations:

1. Muscle and joint pain — quickly numbs discomfort after workouts, injuries, or hypothermia.
2. Neuralgia, radiculitis, osteochondrosis — “switches off” pain signals in pinched nerves and makes movement easier.
3. Early cold symptoms — rubbing the chest and neck lessens nasal congestion and throat discomfort.
4. Hematomas and bruises — cools, reduces swelling, and speeds tissue recovery.
5. Itching and rashes (herpes, pimples, insect bites) — soothes the skin and eases irritation.

These five reasons make Menovazin an indispensable first-aid remedy for rapid relief of discomfort and recovery after minor injuries and irritations. Keep reading to learn more about its mechanism of action, dosage, and contraindications.

What is Menovazin and how does it work?

Menovazin is a combined drug for external use with analgesic, antipruritic and local anesthetic properties. Due to its multicomponent effect, the drug is widely used in everyday life, medicine and even cosmetology.

Menovazin 40 ml

Composition of the drug

Composition of the drug

Menovazin is a combined drug for external use, which has local anesthetic and antipruritic properties.

According to the official instructions, 100 ml of solution contains:

• Menthol – 2.5 g;
• Novocaine (procaine hydrochloride) – 1 g;
• Anesthesin (benzocaine) – 1 g;
• Excipient: ethanol 70%.

Menthol provides a cooling effect and helps to enhance the local effect of analgesic components. Novocaine and benzocaine block nerve impulses, reducing skin sensitivity and numbing pain. Thanks to the alcohol base, the drug dries quickly and does not leave greasy residues.

Release forms: solution, ointment, spray, gel, tincture, tablets

The officially registered form of Menovazin in Ukraine is an alcohol solution for external use. It has the appearance of a colorless, transparent liquid with a pronounced menthol odor and is available in glass bottles or in spray bottles.

Menovazine 50 ml (spray)

Other forms such as:

• ointment
• gel
• Tincture
• Pills

are not listed as registered medicinal products. Their presence on the market may be associated with cosmetics, dietary supplements, or informal production. In a medical context, it is recommended to use only the form that has a registration certificate – an alcohol solution.

Comparative table of Menovazin and its popular analogues — Troxevenol and Menogel:

Medication	Dosage form	Active ingredients	Main effect	Frequency of use	Indications
Menovazin	Alcohol solution, spray	Procaine, benzocaine, menthol	Local anaesthesia + cooling	2–3 times a day (every 4–6 h)	Muscle/joint pain, neuralgia, colds, itching
Troxevenol	2 % gel	Troxerutin	Strengthens vessel walls, reduces swelling	1–2 times a day	Varicose veins, swelling, heaviness in legs
Menogel	Gel	Menthol, eucalyptol, camphor	Cooling, analgesic, anti-inflammatory action	2–3 times a day	Local muscle pain, sprains, bruises

Operating principle

Menovazin has a double effect: local anesthetic and antipruritic.

After application to the skin, the drug irritates the nerve endings, which is accompanied by characteristic sensations – slight cold, burning, tingling. These sensations reduce the sensitivity of the skin and create a distraction effect from pain.

The analgesic effect is due to the properties of novocaine and benzocaine – they block sodium channels in nerve fibers, thereby interrupting the transmission of pain signals to the brain.

Menthol enhances these effects, creates a feeling of coolness and partially affects blood vessels, which also helps to relieve symptoms.

Important: when applied externally, the drug is not absorbed into the bloodstream and does not have a systemic effect, which makes it relatively safe if the instructions are followed.

What does Menovazin help with?

Muscle and joint pain

Menovazin is often used to relieve muscle and joint pain after exercise, hypothermia, or injury. The drug provides a local analgesic effect, due to which the pain gradually subsides, muscles relax, and mobility improves.

It is especially useful for athletes or people engaged in heavy physical labor. It can be applied after training to reduce the feeling of soreness or pain in the calves, back, shoulders.

Neuralgia, sciatica, osteochondrosis

For neuralgia, Menovazin helps reduce the intensity of pain that occurs due to pinched or irritated nerves. Its action is aimed at temporarily “turning off” pain signals, which makes it possible to alleviate the condition without taking pills.

In the case of sciatica or osteochondrosis, a solution or ointment is applied to the lower back or cervical area several times a day. It is important to rub the drug with gentle massage movements until a feeling of slight cold or warmth appears.

Menovazin does not cure the underlying cause of the disease, but significantly improves well-being during exacerbations.

Headache (rubbing in the temple)

A small amount of Menovazin rubbed into the temple area can help reduce tension headaches or mild migraine-like pain. This is due to the cooling effect of menthol, which dilates blood vessels, as well as due to the analgesic components in the composition.

The product should be applied very carefully, avoiding contact with the eyes and mucous membranes. 1-2 drops are enough to feel relief in a few minutes.

Blown neck or back, intercostal neuralgia

When neck or back pain appears after a draft or conditioner, Menovazin may be the first remedy to turn to. Rubbing it into the problem area helps relieve muscle spasm, warm the skin and reduce discomfort.

The drug is also effective in intercostal neuralgia. It relieves pain between the ribs, which is often worse when breathing or moving. Thanks to cooling and local anesthesia, Menovazin quickly gives a noticeable result.

Sinusitis – as an adjuvant

Although Menovazin is not the main treatment for sinusitis, it can be used as an adjuvant to reduce pain in the area around the nose, cheeks and forehead. Gently rubbing the solution or ointment into the skin near the maxillary sinuses improves microcirculation, relieves swelling and makes breathing easier.

It should be applied only externally, avoiding contact with mucous membranes. This approach can complement the main therapy (antibiotics, washing), especially in chronic sinusitis or congestion.

Runny nose, sore throat, cold (chest rubbing)

Menovazin is actively used at the first symptoms of a cold. It is rubbed into the chest, back or feet for a warming effect. This helps to improve blood circulation, reduce nasal congestion and make breathing easier.

With sore throat, you can rub the drug into the neck area (avoid the thyroid gland) to relieve discomfort. For the best effect, it can be combined with a warm blanket or woolen scarf. This method works well as an auxiliary, especially in the initial stages of a cold or as a support for the main treatment.

Herpes, acne, itching

Menovazin has a mild antiseptic and drying effect, which makes it useful in the fight against minor skin problems. When acne or inflamed areas of the skin appear, the drug can be applied pointwise with a cotton swab to reduce itching, redness and speed up healing.

For herpes, Menovazin is used carefully – only in the early stages, when burning and itching appear, but there are no open wounds yet. This helps to muffle the development of rashes.

The tool also reduces itching from insect bites or irritation after contact with household chemicals. However, on sensitive or very dry skin, it is better to apply pointwise and infrequently to avoid irritation.

Hematomas, bruises, injuries

Menovazin works well as a first aid for bruises and hematomas. Thanks to its cooling effect, it reduces swelling and pain in the first hours after the injury, and the analgesic components alleviate the condition.

You need to apply the product carefully – not massaging, but lightly rubbing so as not to aggravate tissue damage. Regular use accelerates the resorption of bruises and recovery from injury.

In case of serious injuries or open wounds, Menovazin should not be used – only on intact skin.

Temperature (rubbing with hyperthermia)

At high body temperatures, Menovazin can be used as an alternative to vinegar or alcohol rubbing. Its menthol quickly cools the skin, giving a feeling of lightness and reducing heat.

The product is rubbed into areas with good blood circulation – wrists, inside of the elbows, feet, neck. This helps cool the whole body. This method is well suited as a temporary measure to the action of antipyretic drugs or with a slight increase in temperature.

It is worth using rubbing with Menovazin only in adults and on intact skin.

Toothache, earache (external)

Menovazin is not a substitute for a dentist or otolaryngologist, but it can help you get through severe pain before a visit to the doctor. In case of toothache, the product is applied externally – on the cheek from the side of the diseased tooth. This temporarily reduces pain by blocking nerve impulses.

The same is true with earache – Menovazin is gently rubbed into the skin around the ear. In no case should you drip it inside the ear!

It is important to remember: this is only a temporary measure, not a treatment for the cause of the pain.

Hemorrhoids (only externally, neatly)

Although Menovazin is not a specialized drug for the treatment of hemorrhoids, it is sometimes used to reduce itching, burning or pain in the external form of this disease.

The product should be used very carefully. It is applied to a cotton pad and gently applied only to the outer areas. Menovazin should not be used on mucous membranes or open cracks, so as not to cause irritation.

Before such use, be sure to consult a doctor to avoid complications or adverse reactions.

Menovazin during pregnancy and for children: is it possible or not?

Is it possible during pregnancy (I, II, III trimesters)

According to the instructions, the use of Menovazin during pregnancy is possible only in cases where the expected benefit to the mother exceeds the potential risk to the fetus. This means that the drug is not completely prohibited for pregnant women, but its use must be limited and always agreed with the doctor.

Меновазин 100 мл

In the first trimester, it is recommended to avoid any external drugs with strong active ingredients, including Menovazin. In the II and III trimester, with the permission of the doctor, topical application to small areas of the skin is allowed – for example, with back or joint pain. It is forbidden to make compresses or apply the product in large quantities.

Use in hepatitis B (breastfeeding)

During breastfeeding, the principle “the benefits to the mother must outweigh the potential risk to the baby” also apply. Menovazin can be used, but only externally and away from areas that may come into contact with the infant – in particular, do not apply the drug to the chest or abdomen.

After application, it is important to wash your hands thoroughly to avoid accidental transfer of the drug to the baby’s skin or mucous membranes. If any reaction appears, the drug should be stopped and a doctor should be consulted.

Is it possible for children – at what age, how to use

The official instructions clearly state: the drug is not used in children under 12 years of age.

For older children, Menovazin can be used as directed by a doctor for muscle or joint pain. It should be applied very carefully, avoiding the face, mucous membranes, as well as areas with irritation or rashes. Only topically, in a thin layer, and no more than 2-3 times a day.

Side effects and contraindications

Although Menovazin is considered relatively safe when used correctly, the instructions warn of possible adverse reactions:

• allergic manifestations (redness, itching, rashes, urticaria);
• skin irritation;
• with prolonged use – dizziness, low blood pressure, general weakness.

In case of any of these symptoms, you should immediately stop using the drug, wash it off the skin with water and seek medical attention.

Contraindication:

• hypersensitivity to menthol, novocaine or benzocaine;
• damaged skin or areas with allergies;
• application to the skin of the face;
• children under 12 years of age.

Application in cosmetology and everyday life

Acne and inflammation on the face

Menovazin is not a specialized acne treatment, however, due to its menthol and alcohol content, it can temporarily dry out certain inflamed areas of the skin.

It is sometimes used pointwise on pimples to reduce redness, itching, or irritation. This effect is short-lived, and the drug should be used for cosmetic purposes with great caution.

Menovazin is not suitable for regular facial care and is not a prevention of rashes. Its alcohol base can dry out the skin, and with sensitive or problem skin, cause even more irritation.

Can it be applied to the face, mucous membranes, open wounds

No, apply Menovazin on:

• mucous membranes (nose, mouth, eyes),
• face (especially the area around the eyes),
• open wounds (abrasions, scratches, burns)

strictly prohibited – this is explicitly stated in the official instructions.

The drug can cause severe irritation, burning or an allergic reaction, because it contains alcohol and local anesthetics. For facial skin or wounds, you should choose specialized, mild products recommended by a dermatologist.

Menovazin and hair removal: how to reduce irritation after shaving or hair removal

After shaving or waxing, the skin often becomes sensitive, itching, redness or rashes may occur. Some use Menovazin to reduce discomfort due to its cooling effect.

However, due to the alcohol and active anesthetic content, the drug can increase irritation, especially if the skin is damaged or has microcracks after hair removal.

If you use Menovazin in such cases, then only:

• on healthy, intact skin,
• pointwise, in a thin layer,
• not immediately after shaving, but when the feeling of sensitivity disappears.

To reduce irritation, it is better to use special sedatives based on panthenol, chamomile or aloe.

Menovazin for weight loss – myths and reality

There is a widespread belief on the Internet that Menovazin helps to lose weight if it is applied to “problem areas” or used for wraps. However, this is a myth that has not been confirmed by any clinical studies.

Menovazin does not affect adipose tissue and does not contribute to a decrease in volume. Its effect is only superficial: it can cool or slightly warm up the skin, causing a temporary feeling of “work”.

Moreover, applying the drug to large areas of the body (especially under the film) can lead to dizziness, low blood pressure, skin irritation, and in rare cases, allergic reactions.

Can it be combined with iodine, camphor or formic alcohol

Menovazin already contains 70% ethanol, so it should be combined with other alcohol products with extreme caution or not at all.

Combination of:

• iodine – can cause excessive irritation or burns;
• camphor alcohol – will increase irritation and the risk of allergies;
• formic alcohol – increases the risk of overdrying of the skin, burning, peeling.

Such combinations are not recommended by the instructions and can be dangerous for skin, especially sensitive or damaged. If there is a need to combine, be sure to consult a doctor or pharmacist.

How to use Menovazin correctly?

How to apply to joints, back, temples, ears

Menovazin is used only externally, by lightly rubbing into the skin in painful areas.

• On the joints and back , the drug is applied with clean hands to dry skin and rubbed with circular massage movements until completely absorbed. It helps with back pain, knees, shoulders, etc.
• On the temples – literally 1-2 drops of the product are applied to the finger or cotton swab and gently rubbed into the temple area, avoiding contact with the eyes. May help with headaches.
• On the area near the ear – Menovazin is rubbed around the ear (not inside!) for earache, only externally.

In all cases, do not apply the product to mucous membranes or damaged skin.

How to make a compress

A compress with Menovazin can be used to enhance the local effect, for example, for lower back or joint pain.

1. Moisten a gauze or cotton cloth with Menovazin.
2. Apply to the painful area of the skin.
3. Cover with plastic or parchment on top.
4. Wrap with a cloth or scarf.

Holding time is 20-30 minutes. If there is a burning sensation or severe discomfort, the compress must be removed immediately. This method is not suitable for daily use or for sensitive skin.

How many times a day can you use

According to the instructions, Menovazin can be used 2-3 times a day. More often, it is not recommended, as this increases the risk of adverse reactions.

It is advisable to take breaks of at least 4-6 hours between applications, especially if the same area is treated.

Is it possible to smear for a long time

The duration of the course depends on the form of the disease, the severity of symptoms and the effect of the drug. But even with chronic pain, it is not recommended to use Menovazin for more than 3 weeks in a row.

If you need longer use, it is better to take a break for 5-7 days or consult your doctor about a safe regimen of use.

Areas where Menovazin should not be applied

Menovazin is forbidden to apply to:

• mucous membranes (mouth, nose, eyes, intimate areas),
• damaged skin (wounds, scratches, burns),
• areas with manifestations of allergies or dermatitis,
• face — according to the instructions of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine,
• breastfeeding — when breastfeeding.

Also, do not use the drug on large areas of the body at the same time – this can lead to systemic absorption of active substances.

Instructions: ointment, solution, spray

• Solution (officially registered form): applied with a cotton swab or hands, rubbed into the skin 2-3 times a day. Absorbed quickly, leaves no residue.
• Spray (in a spray bottle): Conveniently applied to the skin without hand contact, spray from a distance of 5-10 cm, and then rub in lightly if necessary. Ideal for large areas (back, shoulders).
• Ointment: as such, it is not indicated in the official registration of the Ministry of Health, but sometimes it is available as a cosmetic or pharmacy product. If used, it is applied in a thin layer locally to painful areas.

All molds are for external use only!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Menovazin be used for back or joint pain?

Menovazin is recommended for myalgias, arthralgias, and neuralgias: apply it externally to painful areas of the back or joints and rub in 2–3 times a day until pain relief is achieved. Thanks to the combination of menthol and local anaesthetics, the product quickly reduces pain and relaxes tense muscles.

How often can Menovazin be used safely?

According to the official instructions, Menovazin should be applied 2–3 times a day at intervals of at least 4–6 hours. A course usually does not exceed three consecutive weeks; if longer treatment is necessary, take a 5–7-day break or consult a doctor.

Is Menovazin suitable for children or pregnant women?

During pregnancy, Menovazin may be used only if the expected benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. In the first trimester, it is best to avoid topical products with potent active ingredients; in the second–third trimesters, apply a thin layer to small areas as prescribed by a doctor. The product is contraindicated in children under 12 years; those over 12 may use it topically no more than 2–3 times a day on a paediatrician’s advice.

What is the difference between Menovazin as an ointment, solution, and spray?

The officially registered medicinal form is an alcohol solution, which is also available in spray bottles for convenience: the spray lets you cover large areas without direct hand contact. The “ointment” is not listed in the register of medicines and is usually sold as a cosmetic or pharmacy-made product with an unknown concentration of active substances, so its quality and effectiveness may vary.

Can Menovazin be used for a headache or a cold?

For tension headaches, rub a few drops of the solution into the temple area, avoiding the eyes; the cooling effect and local anaesthesia help relieve discomfort. To ease nasal congestion and sore throat, rub Menovazin into the chest, back, or feet to improve blood circulation and provide temporary relief of cold symptoms.

Literature:

• Comparing the Efficacy of a Compound Topical Anesthetic Versus Benzocaine: A Pilot Study (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7083119)
• Effectiveness of Topical Anesthetics in Pain Management for Dermal Injuries: A Systematic Review (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8200993)

Author: Natalia Kandybey, Candidate of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Quality Director of PJSC Pharmaceutical Factory “VIOLA”

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