Menthol and related cooling compounds

J Pharm Pharmacol. 1994 Aug;46(8):618-30. doi: 10.1111/j.2042-7158.1994.tb03871.x.

Abstract

Menthol and related cooling compounds such as 'coolant agent 10', are widely used in products ranging from common cold medications to toothpastes, confectionery, cosmetics and pesticides. The review brings together a range of information on production and chemistry of menthol, and its metabolism, mechanism of action, structure-activity relationships, pharmacology and toxicology. In particular, the coolant action and carminative actions of menthol are discussed in terms of actions on calcium conductance in sensory nerves and smooth muscle. The actions of menthol on the nose, respiratory reflexes, oral cavity, skin and gastrointestinal tract are reviewed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antitussive Agents / pharmacology
  • Digestive System / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Lung / drug effects
  • Menthol / chemistry
  • Menthol / metabolism
  • Menthol / pharmacology*
  • Menthol / toxicity
  • Mouth / drug effects
  • Mucus / drug effects
  • Nasal Decongestants / pharmacology
  • Respiratory System / drug effects
  • Skin / drug effects
  • Structure-Activity Relationship

Substances

  • Antitussive Agents
  • Nasal Decongestants
  • Menthol