glycol salicylate

Glycol salicylate is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and a member of the salicylates, chemically known as 2-hydroxyethyl salicylate. It is formed by the condensation of the carboxy group of salicylic acid with one hydroxy group of ethylene glycol. Glycol salicylate is primarily used as an active ingredient in topical creams, sprays, and patches for the relief of mild to moderate muscle and joint pain, including aches, pains, stiffness, arthritis, sprains, or strains. Its mechanism involves inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme via its metabolite (salicylic acid), leading to decreased formation of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins[1][3][4][5]. The drug acts locally when applied topically and may also function as a counter-irritant by causing mild skin irritation that distracts from deeper musculoskeletal pain[8].

Other names

glycol salicylate2-hydroxyethyl salicylateethylene glycol monosalicylate2-hydroxyethyl 2-hydroxybenzoate