Capsaicin

Capsaicin topical is an over-the-counter (OTC) product used to treat musculoskeletal pain. Capsaicin topical is used off-label to treat diabetic neuropathy.

Capsaicin topical is available under the following different brand names: Capzasin P, Zostrix, Capzasin-HP, Axsain, No Pain-HP, Pain Doctor, Pain-X, Rid-A-Pain, Salonpas Hot, Trixaicin, and Menthac.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Topical Cream

• 0.025%
• 0.035%
• 0.075%
• 0.1%

Topical Gel

• 0.025%

Topical Liquid

• 0.025%

Dosage Considerations – Should be Given as Follows:

Skeletomuscular Pain

• Apply to affected area three or four times daily for 3-4 consecutive weeks and evaluate efficacy; efficacy decreased if used less than 3 times daily; not to exceed 4 applications/day; wash hands with soap and water after applying

Diabetic Neuropathy (Off-label)

• Cream: Apply to affected area three or four times daily for 3-4 consecutive weeks and evaluate efficacy; not to exceed 4 applications/day; wash hands with soap and water after applying

Safety and efficacy not established in pediatric patients.

Common side effects of Capsaicin include:

• Temporary increased pain at application site (dissipates with continued use)
• Application site redness
• Pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Dryness
• Swelling
• Itching
• Skin bumps
• Fluid retention (edema)
• Sinusitis
• Bronchitis

Less common side effects of capsaicin topical include:

• Exfoliation
• Dizziness
• Cough
• Skin odor
• Headache
• Changes in taste

This document does not contain all possible side effects and others may occur. Check with your physician for additional information about side effects.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor, health care provider or pharmacist first.

• Capsaicin topical has no listed severe interactions with other drugs.
• Capsaicin topical has no listed serious interactions with other drugs.
• Capsaicin topical has no listed moderate interactions with other drugs.
• Capsaicin topical has no listed mild interactions with other drugs.

Warnings

This medication contains capsaicin topical. Do not take Capzasin P, Zostrix, Capzasin-HP, Axsain, No Pain-HP, Pain Doctor, Pain-X, Rid-A-Pain, Salonpas Hot, Trixaicin, or Menthac if you are allergic to capsaicin topical or any ingredients contained in this drug.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity

Effects of Drug Abuse

• No information available.

Short-Term Effects

• See "What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Capsaicin?"

Long-Term Effects

• See "What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Capsaicin?"

Cautions

• For external use only
• Do not apply to broken skin
• Do not apply to face or scalp to avoid exposure to eyes or mucous membranes
• Treated area may be sensitive to heat for several days (e.g., hot water, direct sunlight, vigorous exercise)
• Use caution in patients with uncontrolled hypertension, history of cerebrovascular events

Pregnancy and Lactation

Capsaicin topical may be acceptable for use during pregnancy. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies are not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies were done and showed no risk.

It is unknown whether capsaicin topical is distributed in breast milk. Do not apply capsaicin topical to the nipple or areola. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.