Individuals throughout the state of Pennsylvania find themselves reaching for topical pain relievers to address minor aches and pains. Because these products are available to purchase over-the-counter, many assume that their use will not result in additional harm to the user. Sadly, this is not always the case.

Last month the Food and Drug Administration issued a warning to users of these products intended to ease muscle or joint pain. The warning is a result of numerous reports of injuries to users of the products in all forms including patches, lotions, creams and ointments. The agency reportedly received reports of more than 40 people suffering burns of varying degrees after using the products.

While it may be expected that overuse of the pain relievers could lead to injuries of this type, the FDA indicates that in at least some cases the burns were the result of only one use of the product. In some cases the burns caused blistering to occur. In other situations, injured individuals had to seek treatment for complications at hospitals.

There are ways in which users of these products can protect themselves. The first is to make sure the skin upon which the product is being applied is not damaged in anyway. The second precaution is to make sure that bandages are not used in conjunction with the topical products. Next, heat should not be applied to the same area in which the topical product has recently been applied.

Should any problems occur while using the products it is recommended that medical attention is sought promptly. In addition to seeking medical attention, it may be worthwhile to seek legal counsel as well.

Source: CNN, "FDA warns consumers about topical pain relievers," Sept. 13, 2012

• The dangers associated with dangerous and defective products can in some cases lead to individuals being hurt. Our firm provides counsel in situations where product defects lead to injuries. If you would like to learn more about our practice, please visit our Pittsburgh dangerous products page.