Drug
Salicylic Acid
Pronounced
"SAL-i-SIL-ik acid"
Side Effects
Burning, redness, and peeling skin near the treated area may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
People who use this drug for a long time or over large areas of skin may rarely have serious side effects caused by this drug entering the bloodstream. Children younger than 12 years and people with liver or kidney problems are more at risk. Tell your doctor right away if any of these serious side effects occur: unexplained nausea/vomiting/diarrhea, rapid breathing, dizziness, hearing problems (such as ringing in the ears, hearing loss), mental/mood changes, tiredness.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using salicylic acid, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to aspirin; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, liver problems.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Children may be at greater risk for rare side effects from absorbing this medication into the bloodstream. (See Side Effects for more information.) This drug is similar to aspirin. Children and teenagers younger than 18 years should not use this drug if they have chickenpox, flu, or any undiagnosed illness or if they have recently received a vaccine. In these cases, this drug may increase the risk of Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious illness.
During pregnancy, this product should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this product passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.