CAPSAICIN - TOPICAL (Capsagel, Salonpas-Hot, Zostrix) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

Font Size

GENERIC NAME: CAPSAICIN - TOPICAL (kap-SAY-iss-in)

BRAND NAME(S): Capsagel, Salonpas-Hot, Zostrix

USES: This medication is used on the skin to relieve pain in conditions such as arthritis, shingles, psoriasis or diabetic neuropathy.

HOW TO USE: This medication is for topical use only. Clean and dry the affected area as directed. Then apply a small amount of the medication on the skin and rub in gently. Use of gloves or an applicator is recommended. Cover with a loose bandage if directed to do so. Wash hands after use. Do not use large amounts, apply this more often or use this for longer than directed. Your condition will not clear faster, but the chance for side effects may be increased. Use carefully if applying to the face. Avoid contact with the eyes. Avoid applying this to broken or irritated skin.

SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause burning when first applied. Stinging, redness or a cough have been reported. Notify your doctor if any of these symptoms continue or become bothersome. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have any pre-existing conditions, such as: illness, any allergies. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication is found in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including any skin products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Printer-Friendly Format

Email to a Friend

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

Shingles - Read about shingles symptoms (contagious rash), vaccine, causes (chickenpox [varicella] virus, stress), treatment, how it's transmitted and postherpetic neuralgia.
Psoriasis - Read about psoriasis symptoms, causes, treatment information, medication and types: vulgaris, guttate, inverse and pustular. Red dry flakes, skin scales and plaques of raised skin are common symptoms.
Arthritis - Arthritis symptoms include pain, joint inflammation and swelling. Get the facts on arthritis types, causes, research information, statistics and diagnosis.