Iodex
Iodex is a balm made by Haleon that contains Menthol + Methyl salicylate + Eucalyptus oil. It combines Menthol: cooling agent, Methyl salicylate: warming pain rub and Eucalyptus oil: decongestant oil.
| Ingredient (salt) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Menthol | see pack |
| Methyl salicylate | see pack |
| Eucalyptus oil | see pack |
Menthol
What it is used for
Gives a cooling feeling that soothes aches, itching or a blocked nose.
How it works
Menthol triggers the cold-sensing receptors of skin and nose, giving a cooling feeling that eases itch and ache and makes the nose feel clearer.
How to take it
Rubs and balms: apply a thin layer up to 3 or 4 times a day. Lozenges and inhalants: as directed on the pack.
Common side effects
Skin irritation or stinging
Get medical help straight away if
Breathing problems in a young child after it was used on or near the face
Be careful
External or as directed; avoid near the eyes. Not for babies' faces.
Other medicines and interactions
No important medicine interactions.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Generally fine in small amounts. Do not use on the breasts while breastfeeding or near a baby's face.
Methyl salicylate
What it is used for
Gives a warming effect on the skin that eases muscle and joint aches.
How it works
The active ingredient of wintergreen oil. It warms and mildly irritates the skin, which distracts from the deeper ache (counter-irritant), and some is absorbed as a salicylate.
How to take it
Rub a thin layer onto the aching area up to 3 or 4 times a day. Wash hands afterwards. Do not use heat pads over it or apply under tight bandages.
Common side effects
Warmth, redness or stinging where applied
Get medical help straight away if
- Anyone swallows it, especially a child (it is very toxic)
- Blistering skin
- Wheezing
Be careful
For external use only; poisonous if swallowed. Do not use on broken skin.
Other medicines and interactions
Large amounts on the skin can add to the effect of warfarin; avoid if allergic to aspirin.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Avoid heavy or long-term use in pregnancy and breastfeeding; do not apply to the breasts.
Eucalyptus oil
What it is used for
Helps ease a blocked nose when inhaled or rubbed on the chest.
How it works
The vapour of eucalyptus oil (mainly cineole) gives a feeling of a clearer nose and loosens mucus.
How to take it
Add a few drops to hot water for steam inhalation, or use rubs on the chest. Do not swallow.
Common side effects
- Skin irritation
- Coughing if the vapour is too strong
Get medical help straight away if
- Anyone swallows it (it is poisonous)
- Breathing trouble in a young child
Be careful
External use only; keep away from young children.
Other medicines and interactions
No important medicine interactions.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Use sparingly in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Not for use on or near the faces of babies and young children.
Common questions
What is Iodex?
Iodex is a balm by Haleon containing Menthol + Methyl salicylate + Eucalyptus oil.
What is Iodex used for?
Gives a cooling feeling that soothes aches, itching or a blocked nose. Gives a warming effect on the skin that eases muscle and joint aches. Helps ease a blocked nose when inhaled or rubbed on the chest.
How should I take Iodex?
Rubs and balms: apply a thin layer up to 3 or 4 times a day. Lozenges and inhalants: as directed on the pack. Rub a thin layer onto the aching area up to 3 or 4 times a day. Wash hands afterwards. Do not use heat pads over it or apply under tight bandages. Add a few drops to hot water for steam inhalation, or use rubs on the chest. Do not swallow. Always follow the dose your doctor or the pack gives.
What are the side effects of Iodex?
Common side effects include: Skin irritation or stinging, Warmth, redness or stinging where applied, Skin irritation, coughing if the vapour is too strong. Get medical help straight away for: Breathing problems in a young child after it was used on or near the face, Anyone swallows it, especially a child (it is very toxic), blistering skin, wheezing, Anyone swallows it (it is poisonous), breathing trouble in a young child.
Does Iodex need a prescription?
It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.
Can I take Iodex in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Generally fine in small amounts. Do not use on the breasts while breastfeeding or near a baby's face. Avoid heavy or long-term use in pregnancy and breastfeeding; do not apply to the breasts. Use sparingly in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Not for use on or near the faces of babies and young children.
What are the substitutes for Iodex?
We have no other brand with exactly the same composition and strength in our list yet. Ask your pharmacist for an equivalent.
Sources and further reading
- Menthol: NHS · MedlinePlus
- Methyl salicylate: NHS · MedlinePlus
- Eucalyptus oil: NHS · MedlinePlus
NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.
Composition checked against pack details from large Indian online pharmacies. Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.
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