What is Sarna: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Sarna overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Anti-Itch, Arthricare, Camphotrex, DermaSarra, Freeze It, Freeze It Feet, Freeze It Xtreme, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Anti-Itch, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Therapeutic Blue Ice, HempNesic, Inflatherm, Leader Anti-Itch, LMR Plus, Mentholatum, Migranow

Generic Names:

  • Sarna

Uses:

  • Treats minor aches and pains in muscles and joints due to arthritis, backache, strains, or sprains.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Analgesic, Analgesic Combination, Emollient

Forms:

  • Lotion, Gel/Jelly, Cream, Stick, Ointment

How it’s taken:

  • On the skin

What is Sarna used for?

What form(s) does Sarna come in

  • Lotion

  • Gel/Jelly

  • Cream

  • Stick

  • Ointment

What are common Sarna doses?

  • Bottle 222ML of 0.5-0.5%

Common Sarna prescriptions

  • Sarna
    222ml of 0.5-0.5% bottle

How to take Sarna

  • Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.

  • Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • Topical application routeDo not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.

  • Do not use this medicine with a heating pad or device unless your doctor tells you to.

  • Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.

  • Do not use this medicine with a heating pad or device unless your doctor tells you to.

  • Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • Topical application routeDo not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.

What to do if you miss a dose of Sarna

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

  • Topical application routeAsk your pharmacist or doctor how to dispose of the medicine container and any leftover or expired medicine.

  • Keep all medicine away from children.

Sarna contraindications

  • You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to menthol or camphor.

Sarna warnings

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have sensitive skin.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

Sarna interactions

  • Topical application routeDo not put cosmetics or skin care products on the treated skin.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

Sarna side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Skin rash, itching, redness, or swelling.

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Return of your symptoms a few days after they have cleared up.