Loading...
According to the New York City medical examiner, the recent sudden death of an adolescent cross-country runner was caused by excess use of over-the-counter (OTC) sports creams (such as Bengay and Icy Hot) to relieve sore muscles and joints. The creams contain the anti-inflammatory agent methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen or batula oil). In addition to repeatedly using the muscle cream on her body, the teen reportedly used adhesive patches containing the anti-inflammatory medication. Exercise and heat can accentuate absorption of methyl salicylate into the body. The medical examiner reported that the teen’s body contained extremely high levels of methyl salicylate and that the toxin likely caused a fatal seizure.
Nausea, vomiting, fatigue,…