What is capsaicin topical?
Capsaicin is the active ingredient in chili peppers that makes them hot. Capsaicin is used in medicated creams and lotions to relieve muscle or joint pain.
Capsaicin used on the body causes a sensation of heat that activates certain nerve cells. With regular use of capsaicin, this heating effect reduces the amount of substance P, a chemical that acts as a pain messenger in the body.
Capsaicin topical is used for temporary relief of muscle or joint pain caused by strains, sprains, arthritis, bruising, or backaches. Capsaicin topical is also used to treat nerve pain (neuralgia) in people who have had herpes zoster, or "shingles."
Capsaicin topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about capsaicin topical?
Do not use this medication if you are allergic to chili peppers, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to capsaicin topical.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist about using capsaicin topical if you have any allergies or serious medical conditions. Do not use this medication on anyone younger than 18 years old without the advice of a doctor.
Capsaicin can cause a burning sensation, which is usually mild and should lessen over time with continued use. If the burning sensation causes significant discomfort, wash the treated skin area with soap and cool water. Stop using the medication and call your doctor if you have severe burning or redness where the medicine was applied.
Avoid getting capsaicin topical in your mouth or eyes or near your nose.
Do not apply to open wounds or irritated skin, and avoid getting the medicine on contact lenses, dentures, and other items that come into contact with sensitive areas of your body.
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine, or if anyone has accidentally swallowed it. Accidental swallowing of capsaicin can cause problems with swallowing or breathing.
It may take up to 2 weeks of using this medicine regularly before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed.
Call your doctor if your pain does not improve after using this medication for 7 days, or if your symptoms get worse or get better and then come back in a few days.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using capsaicin topical?
Do not use this medication if you are allergic to chili peppers, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to capsaicin topical.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist about using capsaicin topical if you have any allergies (especially to plants), or if you have a serious medical condition.
It is not known whether capsaicin topical will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.
It is not known whether capsaicin topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not apply capsaicin topical to your breast area if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Do not use this medication on anyone younger than 18 years old without the advice of a doctor.