CAPSAICIN - TOPICAL (kap-SAY-iss-in)

COMMON 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:
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. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

NOTES:
If the condition for which this was prescribed does not improve or becomes worse after two weeks, notify your doctor.

MISSED DOSE:
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as remembered; do not apply it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not “double-up” the dose to catch up.

STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat. Check the expiration date on the tube and discard any expired medication.

Drugs & Medications

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

The drug reference included in this section is provided by Cerner Multum, Inc., of Denver, Colorado. Armenian Medical Network receives monthly updates from Multum.