Generic name: capsaicin (topical route) [ kap-SAY-sin ]
Drug class:Miscellaneous topical agents
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 20, 2021.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Arthricare For Women
- Capsagel
- Capsagesic-HP Arthritis Relief
- Capsin
- Double Cap
- Icy Hot Arthritis Therapy
- Pain Enz
- Rid-A-Pain
- Sportsmed
- Therapatch Warm
- Trixaicin
- Zostrix
Available Dosage Forms:
- Cream
- Lotion
- Patch, Extended Release
- Solution
Therapeutic Class: Analgesic
Uses for Sportsmed
Capsaicin is used to help relieve a certain type of pain known as neuralgia (shooting or burning pain in the nerves). Capsaicin is also used to help relieve minor pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis or muscle sprains and strains. Qutenza® patch is also used to treat nerve pain caused by diabetic peripheral neuropathy of the feet. It will not cure any of these conditions.
Neuralgia is a pain that comes from the nerves near the surface of your skin. This pain may occur after an infection with herpes zoster (shingles or postherpetic neuralgia). Capsaicin will help relieve the pain of postherpetic neuralgia, but it will not cure the condition.
Qutenza® is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of your doctor. Zostrix® is available both over-the-counter (OTC) and with your doctor's prescription.
Before using Sportsmed
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Appropriate studies have not been...
