Yes, topical analgesics are eligible for purchase with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Are Topical Analgesics FSA/HSA Eligible?
Topical analgesics are applied to the skin to relieve pain from conditions such as muscle aches, arthritis, back pain, sprains, or minor injuries. Because they are used to treat a medical condition and contain active medicinal ingredients, they qualify as eligible medical expenses under IRS Code Section 213(d).
According to the SIGIS Eligible Product List Criteria, over-the-counter topical pain relief medications are FSA- and HSA-eligible without a prescription.
FSA- and HSA-eligible topical analgesics include:
Creams, gels, or sprays with menthol, camphor, or capsaicin
Lidocaine-based patches or creams
Arnica-based pain relief gels with a National Drug Code (NDC)
Pain-relieving roll-ons or sticks designed for muscle or joint pain
Children’s formulations with a treatment indication
These products are eligible as long as they are used for medical pain relief and not for general relaxation or cosmetic purposes.
What’s Not Covered?
Products marketed solely for comfort, relaxation, or cosmetic benefit are not eligible. This includes:
Aromatherapy lotions or massage oils without a listed active ingredient
Spa creams or scented balms marketed for wellness
General moisturizers, even if they include menthol or other cooling ingredients
Dual-purpose products not primarily intended for pain relief
To qualify, the product must contain an active medicinal ingredient and be marketed for therapeutic pain treatment.
How to Buy Topical Analgesics with Your FSA or HSA
You can purchase topical analgesics directly at buyFSA.com using your FSA or HSA card. Every item listed on buyFSA.com is FSA- and HSA-eligible, so there’s no guesswork or reimbursement hassle.
If purchasing elsewhere:
Use your FSA or HSA card at checkout (in-store or online)
Look for packaging that includes an active ingredient and pain relief indication
Save your receipt in case your plan administrator requests documentation
Avoid products marketed for general comfort or cosmetic purposes
For more information, visit the SIGIS Eligible Product List Criteria .
