(CNN) - Topical pain relievers may ease muscle and joint pain, but the Food and Drug Administration says the products could cause burns.
The FDA says some consumers have reported mild to serious chemical burns from using products like Bengay, Icy Hot and Flexall.
In some cases, officials say the over-the-counter creams, gels and ointments caused burns after just one application.
Some were serious enough to require hospitalization.
The FDA advises that people not apply pain relievers on damaged or irritated skin, and don't bandage the area where you've applied the product.
Users should not use a heating pad or hot water bottle with the pain reliever.
CNN