This medicine is used on the skin to relieve the pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, shingles, and diabetic neuropathy. It is being studied for use in treating the pain of other conditions. You can buy it without a prescription.

Proper Use

Use this medicine only on your skin. Do not get it into your eyes, nose, or mouth because it can be very irritating. If you get some medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth, rinse them with plenty of cool water.

Do not apply this medicine more than 3 or 4 times a day. You may feel some temporary burning, especially if you use this medicine often.

If you wear contact lenses, do not let this medicine get on your contacts because it may make your eyes burn when you put your contacts in. To keep from getting this medicine on your contacts, wash your hands thoroughly after applying the medicine, or wear gloves or use an applicator (such as a tongue depressor or gauze pad) when you apply this medicine.

Do not put tight bandages over the areas where you apply the medicine. Also, do not apply this medicine to broken or irritated skin.

If your condition gets worse or your symptoms continue, contact a doctor.

Possible Side Effects

Possible side effects are burning, redness, or irritation where the medicine is applied.

Tell your doctor if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Possible Drug Interactions

No significant drug interactions are expected. However, do not use other medicines that irritate the skin while you are using this medicine.

Be sure that you tell all doctors who treat you about all medicines you are taking, including nonprescription products.

This educational document includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Other Names For This Medication:

capsaicin, topical; Capsin (capsaicin, topical); Capzasin-P (capsaicin, topical); Dolorac (capsaicin, topical); No Pain-HP (capsaicin, topical); Pain Doctor (capsaicin, topical); Pain-X (capsaicin, topical); R-Gel (capsaicin, topical); Zostrix (capsaicin, topical); Zostrix-HP (capsaicin, topical); Pain Relief