Pentafluoropropane and Tetrafluoroethane



Gebauer's Instant Ice™[OTC]; Gebauer's Pain Ease®; Gebauer's Spray and Stretch®







Pentafluoropropane and Tetrafluoroethane

(pen ta flure oh PRO pane & tet ra flure oh ETH ane)

U.S. Brand Names
Gebauer's Instant Ice™[OTC]; Gebauer's Pain Ease®; Gebauer's Spray and Stretch®
Pharmacologic Category
Anesthetic, Topical
Reasons not to take this medicine
  • If you have an allergy to pentafluoropropane, tetrafluoroethane, or any other part of this medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
What is this medicine used for?
  • This medicine is used to relieve pain from muscle and sports injuries.
  • This medicine is used to numb an area of the skin before a procedure.
How does it work?
  • Pentafluoropropane and tetrafluoroethane numb the nerves in the area applied.
How is it best taken?
  • Do not take this medicine by mouth. For skin only. Keep out of mouth, nose, and eyes (may burn).
  • Spray over affected area only. Do not reapply if skin becomes irritated. White petroleum may be applied to unaffected areas for protection.
  • If using for sports injuries or procedures, spray affected area for 4-10 seconds until skin begins to turn white, do not frost the skin.
  • If using for muscle tension or spasms, spray affected muscle at about 4 inches per second and stretch the muscle while applying.
What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)
  • Many times this medicine is used on an as needed basis.
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?
  • If you have any circulation problems, talk with healthcare provider.
  • If you have diabetes, talk with healthcare provider.
  • Use caution on skin where a large area is involved or where there are open wounds.
  • Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.
What are some possible side effects of this medicine?
  • Skin irritation.
  • Change in color of skin.
What should I monitor?
  • Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?
  • Follow up with healthcare provider.
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
  • If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center immediately or dial 911.
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Weakness, numbness, or tingling.
  • Severe skin irritation.
  • Any rash.
  • No improvement in condition or feeling worse.
How should I store this medicine?
  • Store at room temperature.
  • Protect from heat.
General statements
  • If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.
  • Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
  • Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.
Brand Names: