Drugs & Vitamins

Capsaicin Topical Active Ingredients: Capsaicin Topical Representative Names: Capsin, Capzasin-P, Dolorac, R-Gel, Zostrix, Zostrix-HP What is capsaicin skin cream, lotion or other skin preparations? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should I use this medicine? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with capsaicin? What side effects may I notice from using capsaicin? What should I watch for while taking capsaicin? Where can I keep my medicine? What is capsaicin skin cream, lotion or other skin preparations? (Back to top) CAPSAICIN (Capzasin-P®, Icy Hot®, Rid-a-Pain®, Zostrix®) is used to help relieve pain in the muscle or joints. It is also used for different types of nerve pain, such as pain due to nerve problems in people with diabetes. Capsaicin skin preparations are available from many different manufacturers. What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? (Back to top) They need to know if you have any of these conditions: •broken skin •irritated skin •an unusual or allergic reaction to capsaicin, hot peppers, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives •breast-feeding •pregnant or trying to get pregnant How should I use this medicine? (Back to top) Follow the directions on the label. Capsaicin should be used 3 to 4 times per day. Less frequent use will decrease the effect of capsaicin. Rub the cream or gel into the painful area until there is little or no visible cream (or gel) left on the skin surface. Unless you are using capsaicin for arthritis of the hands, you should wash your hands after you apply the cream or gel. If you are using capsaicin for arthritis of the hands, do not wash your hands for at least 30 minutes after using this medicine. Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. What if I miss a dose? (Back to top) If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses. What drug(s) may interact with capsaicin? (Back to top) There are no known drug interactions with capsaicin. What side effects may I notice from using capsaicin? (Back to top) Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible: Rare or uncommon: •breakdown of your skin •cough Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): •burning or stinging of skin at site of application •warm sensation at site of application What should I watch for while taking capsaicin? (Back to top) Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your pain has not gotten better after 2—3 weeks of using capsaicin. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) Keep out of the reach of young children. Store at room temperature, between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F); do not freeze. Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Last Updated:01/01/2001 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.