What are the key benefits and side effects of capsaicin cream. How effective is capsaicin for treating various types of pain. What do user reviews reveal about capsaicin’s efficacy for conditions like arthritis and neuropathy.

Understanding Capsaicin and Its Mechanism of Action

Capsaicin is the active component in chili peppers that gives them their spicy heat. When applied topically, it can help relieve pain by desensitizing nerve receptors. But how exactly does this work?

Capsaicin binds to TRPV1 receptors on nerve endings, initially causing a burning sensation. With repeated use, it depletes substance P, a neurotransmitter involved in pain signaling. This leads to decreased pain sensitivity in the applied area over time.

Key Benefits of Capsaicin Cream

• Non-addictive pain relief
• Can be used for various pain types
• Relatively few systemic side effects
• Available over-the-counter in many forms

Capsaicin Cream Formulations and Brand Names

Capsaicin is available in many topical forms and concentrations. Some common brand names include:

• Zostrix
• Capzasin
• Qutenza
• Salonpas
• Axsain

Concentrations typically range from 0.025% to 8%, with higher strengths requiring a prescription. The 8% Qutenza patch is applied by healthcare providers for neuropathic pain.

Choosing the Right Formulation

Is a cream, gel, or patch best for your needs? Creams and gels allow for easier application over larger areas. Patches provide more targeted, long-lasting relief. Consider the location and type of pain when selecting a formulation.

Efficacy of Capsaicin for Different Pain Conditions

Capsaicin has been studied for various pain conditions with mixed results. How effective is it for specific types of pain?

Osteoarthritis Pain

Studies show capsaicin can modestly reduce osteoarthritis pain, particularly in the knees and hands. A meta-analysis found it provided a 50% reduction in pain for about 40% of users after 4 weeks of use.

Neuropathic Pain

Capsaicin appears most effective for neuropathic pain conditions. The 8% Qutenza patch is FDA-approved for postherpetic neuralgia and diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Lower-concentration OTC products may also help these conditions.

Low Back Pain

Evidence for capsaicin’s efficacy in low back pain is limited. Some studies show modest short-term benefits, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness for this indication.

User Reviews and Ratings of Capsaicin Products

What do real users say about capsaicin creams and patches? According to Drugs.com reviews:

• Overall rating: 4.9/10 from 148 reviews
• 43% reported a positive experience
• 47% reported a negative experience

Ratings varied by condition:

• Osteoarthritis: 5.1/10 (32 reviews)
• Postherpetic neuralgia: 5.2/10 (20 reviews)
• Diabetic peripheral neuropathy: 4.8/10 (10 reviews)

Common Themes in Positive Reviews

Users who had positive experiences often noted:

• Gradual pain relief over several weeks of use
• Effectiveness for localized joint or nerve pain
• Preference over oral pain medications

Common Complaints in Negative Reviews

Negative reviews frequently mentioned:

• Intense burning sensation upon application
• Lack of pain relief even after extended use
• Skin irritation or rash

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While generally considered safe, capsaicin can cause side effects. What should users be aware of?

Common Side Effects

• Burning sensation (especially with initial use)
• Redness
• Itching

Less Common but Serious Side Effects

• Severe burning or pain
• Blistering or skin breakdown
• Allergic reactions

Capsaicin should not be applied to broken or irritated skin. Users should avoid touching eyes or mucous membranes after application. It’s advisable to wear gloves when applying the cream.

Tips for Maximizing Capsaicin’s Effectiveness

To get the most benefit from capsaicin creams, consider these tips:

1. Start with a low concentration and gradually increase if needed
2. Apply 3-4 times daily for best results
3. Be patient – it may take several weeks to see maximum benefit
4. Use consistently for maintenance once pain improves
5. Combine with other pain management strategies for best results

Application Technique

How should capsaicin cream be applied for optimal results? Use a pea-sized amount for a palm-sized area of skin. Gently massage into the painful area until fully absorbed. Wash hands thoroughly after application to avoid transferring to sensitive areas.

Comparing Capsaicin to Other Topical Pain Relievers

How does capsaicin stack up against other common topical pain treatments?

Capsaicin vs. NSAIDs

Topical NSAIDs like diclofenac may provide faster pain relief than capsaicin. However, capsaicin has fewer systemic side effects and may be preferred for long-term use.

Capsaicin vs. Menthol

Menthol provides a cooling sensation that can mask pain, while capsaicin works to desensitize pain receptors. Some products combine both ingredients for dual action relief.

Capsaicin vs. Lidocaine

Lidocaine offers faster numbing but shorter duration of action compared to capsaicin. For chronic pain, capsaicin may provide more sustained relief with regular use.

Future Directions in Capsaicin Research

What new developments are on the horizon for capsaicin-based pain relief?

Novel Delivery Methods

Researchers are exploring new ways to deliver capsaicin, including:

• Microneedle patches for enhanced skin penetration
• Nanoparticle formulations for targeted delivery
• Combination products with other analgesics

Expanded Indications

Studies are investigating capsaicin’s potential for additional pain conditions, such as:

• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy

As research progresses, we may see new capsaicin-based treatments for a wider range of pain disorders.

In conclusion, capsaicin cream offers a unique approach to topical pain relief. While not effective for everyone, it can provide significant benefits for some users, particularly those with neuropathic pain. As with any treatment, it’s important to weigh the potential benefits against possible side effects and consult with a healthcare provider to determine if capsaicin is appropriate for your specific pain condition.

Capsaicin topical Reviews & Ratings

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Brand names:
Qutenza,
Zostrix,
Salonpas Gel-Patch,
Capzasin-HP Arthritis Formula,
Capsin,
Capzasin-HP,
Sloan’s Liniment,
Capsagel Extra Strength,
Capsicum Oleoresin,
Capzasin,
Pain Doctor,
Zostrix Neuropathy,
GNP Capsaicin,
Salonpas-Hot,
Capzasin Back and Body,
Axsain,
Drs Cream,
Theragen HP,
Capsagel Maximum Strength,
Zostrix-HP,
Dolorac,
Menthac Arthritis Cream with Capsaicin,
Salonpas Pain Patch with Capsaicin,
Analgesic Balm with Capsaicin,
Zostrix Sports,
Castiva Warming,
No Pain-HP,
Capzasin-P
Pain-X
R-Gel
Zostrix Foot Pain
Zostrix Diabetic Foot Pain
…show all brand names

Capsaicin topical
has an average rating of 4.9 out of 10 from a total of 148 reviews
on Drugs.com.
43% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 47% reported a negative experience.

Reviews for Capsaicin topical

Frequently asked questions

• Can antidepressants be used for arthritis pain?
• Does Qutenza contain red chili peppers?

Are you taking this medicine?

• Add your review
• Learn more about Capsaicin topical

Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or to remove inappropriate language and content. Reviews that appear to be created by parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any particular medication. While these reviews may be helpful, they are not a substitute for the expertise, knowledge, and judgement of healthcare professionals.

More about capsaicin topical

• Check interactions
• Compare alternatives
• Pricing & coupons
• Side effects
• Dosage information
• During pregnancy
• Drug class: miscellaneous topical agents
• Breastfeeding
• En español

Patient resources

• Drug Information
• Capsaicin (Advanced Reading)
• Capsaicin 8% Patch
• Capsaicin Cream, Gel, Liquid, and Lotion
• Capsaicin Patch
• Capsaicin in Lidocaine Cream

Other brands

Qutenza, Zostrix, Capsin, Icy Hot PM Patch, … +14 more

Professional resources

• Prescribing Information

Related treatment guides

• Burning Mouth Syndrome
• Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
• Neuropathic Pain
• Osteoarthritis

Capsaicin topical User Reviews for Pain

Print

Save

Brand names:
Qutenza,
Zostrix,
Salonpas Gel-Patch,
Capzasin-HP Arthritis Formula,
Capsin,
Capzasin-HP,
Sloan’s Liniment,
Capsagel Extra Strength,
Capsicum Oleoresin,
Capzasin,
Pain Doctor,
Zostrix Neuropathy,
GNP Capsaicin,
Salonpas-Hot,
Capzasin Back and Body,
Axsain,
Drs Cream,
Theragen HP,
Capsagel Maximum Strength,
Zostrix-HP,
Dolorac,
Menthac Arthritis Cream with Capsaicin,
Salonpas Pain Patch with Capsaicin,
Analgesic Balm with Capsaicin,
Zostrix Sports,
Castiva Warming,
No Pain-HP,
Capzasin-P
Pain-X
R-Gel
Zostrix Foot Pain
Zostrix Diabetic Foot Pain
…show all brand names

Capsaicin topical
has an average rating of 4. 8 out of 10 from a total of 58 reviews
for the
treatment of Pain.
40% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 48% reported a negative experience.

Filter by condition
All conditionsBurning Mouth SyndromeDiabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (10)Neuropathic Pain (7)Osteoarthritis (32)Pain (65)Peripheral Neuropathy (14)Postherpetic Neuralgia (20)

Capsaicin topical rating summary

4.8/10 average rating

58 ratings from 65 user reviews.

Compare all 1350 medications used in the treatment of Pain.

Reviews for Capsaicin topical

Frequently asked questions

• Can antidepressants be used for arthritis pain?
• Does Qutenza contain red chili peppers?

Are you taking this medicine?

• Add your review
• Learn more about Capsaicin topical

Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or to remove inappropriate language and content. Reviews that appear to be created by parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any particular medication. While these reviews may be helpful, they are not a substitute for the expertise, knowledge, and judgement of healthcare professionals.

Learn more about Pain

• Pain / Fever Drugs and Alcohol Interactions
• Pain Management: Types of Pain and Treatment Options
• Top 9 Things You Must Know About Naproxen
• Tramadol – Top 8 Things You Need to Know
• Understanding Opioid (Narcotic) Pain Medications

Symptoms and treatments

• Pain

More about capsaicin topical

• Check interactions
• Compare alternatives
• Pricing & coupons
• Reviews (150)
• Side effects
• Dosage information
• During pregnancy
• Drug class: miscellaneous topical agents
• Breastfeeding
• En español

Patient resources

• Drug Information
• Capsaicin (Advanced Reading)
• Capsaicin 8% Patch
• Capsaicin Cream, Gel, Liquid, and Lotion
• Capsaicin Patch
• Capsaicin in Lidocaine Cream

Other brands

Qutenza, Zostrix, Capsin, Icy Hot PM Patch, . .. +14 more

Professional resources

• Prescribing Information

Related treatment guides

• Burning Mouth Syndrome
• Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
• Neuropathic Pain
• Osteoarthritis

Supercritical CO2 red pepper extract (capsaicin 6.9%) – “Preparing the body for summer with CO2 RED PEPPER EXTRACT! My progress in the fight against cellulite. Red pepper extract for hair +3 cm per month. The nuances of using the extract, before and after photos. »

Who hasn’t tried red pepper extract products? I will show and tell you how I use pepper extract for cosmetic purposes. The simplest recipes for the beauty of skin and hair. Pepper scare away cellulite and accelerate hair growth!

Basic information:

Solubility: fat soluble

Capsaicin content: 6.9%

Odor : very light slightly peppery

Color : bright orange, almost red

Thickness : drips reluctantly, quite thick

Volume : 10 gr – 150 rubles (I took it here).

INCI: Capsicum Annuum Extract

Extract contains:
Fat-like substances, saponifiable fraction, carbonyls, alcohols, carbohydrates, capsaicinoids (capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin), pigments (red carotenoids capsanthin and capsorubin). There are β-carotene, vitamin C, polyhydric phenols with antioxidant properties.

Application of red pepper extract :

Who hasn’t tried an anti-cellulite cream or oil with red pepper extract? Probably everyone who at least once smeared himself with something anti-cellulite, came across this extract in the composition.

For example, you won’t please me, then there is so much pepper that it seems that the skin will burn now, then no effect is felt. So I decided to purchase this extract as a preparation for the carcass for the summer.

Red pepper extract for warming creams

– Has a local irritating effect,
– initiates a local rush of blood,
– enhances metabolic processes, thereby increasing skin tone, and alleviates pain in muscles and joints.
– Effective in warming cold and foot creams.

Red pepper extract for anti-cellulite products

Thanks to its warming and reflex action, it increases metabolic processes in the subcutaneous tissue, starts thermal processes that burn excess fats, stimulates blood circulation, improves microcirculation, absorbs excess sebum.

Clay wrap + red pepper extract.

• Clay – 100 gr
• Olive oil – 1 teaspoon
• Red pepper extract – 1 drop.

It was a slowly boiling hell. One drop of the extract, much less, but under the film, the stove began to bake after 5 minutes, the heat increased with every minute, the thighs were hot!

Lasted 20 minutes and ran to wash off, you need to do this very carefully so as not to touch the unaffected places with the mixture) I thought it was a burn, but no, after a couple of hours the skin returned to normal. Swelling, redness and pain slowly subsided.

Do NOT repeat!

Skin redness after wrapping

Wrap with Saki mud + red pepper extract

• Saki mud – 200 gr 9009 0
• Red pepper extract – 1 drop
• Oil optional

But clay was not enough for me, so I decided to try it with Saki mud.

It is quite possible to wander in such a wrap for an hour, the thighs were hot, but quite tolerable. I really liked this tandem.

The result of applying red pepper extract :

• The thighs visually lost a lot of weight after a course of wraps, strange, but I wouldn’t say that by clothes.
• Slightly improved skin texture

From a review of Saki mud

From a review about Saki mud

The idea to add this extract to the cream quickly abandoned me after the ordeal with the wrap.

Oil mixture with red pepper extract against cellulite

But the extract does not show such vigorousness in oil!

3 drops per 30 ml give a slight warming effect, very pleasant and moderate. It turns out a wonderful massage mixture, the thighs are silky after, the skin is tightened and evened out over time.

The result of the massage

I performed massage with extract for about 4 months with different regularity + body wraps + massage with an electric and manual masseur

In October last year, in a photo, I unexpectedly saw a very cellulite thigh , in the summer everything was fine, but then fat accumulated for a cold snap or what? I decided to overcome this folded disgrace over the winter. I didn’t change my diet, I go in for sports.

First photo – October 2015

Second photo – my 2016

did massage not very regularly

Photos taken in bright sunlight , under normal lighting, the thighs are even!

The lateral surface of the thigh has become smooth, but even before this was not a particularly problematic area

Be careful!

Because of the pungency of the extract in products with a low oil content (cream\milk\wrap) I DO NOT use!

Contraindicated for problems with veins, the main effect is due to heating.

I don’t use it every day, every 2-3 days, I use venotonics between applications, I bought horse chestnut extract.

Red Pepper Extract for Hair Growth

Improves blood circulation in the scalp, thereby promoting hair growth.

input rate 0.05%-0.3%

Red pepper extract for hair growth.

I don’t like capsicum tincture for hair growth, I used it once, but this is not an option for my sensitive scalp.

Purchased oil (especially burdock oil) is often supplemented with red pepper extract.

Why not mix yours? On the oil that is most suitable, with its own dosage of pepper, because the sensitivity of the skin is different for everyone. Where one unrealistically bakes, the other feels a slight warmth.

For scalp, I prefer castor oil combined with lighter ones like grape bone.

• I started with one drop per 30 ml and almost did not feel the warming effect.
• For me, a 10 ml drop is optimal, but it is better to start with the minimum dosage.

The mask with the extract burns quite pleasantly, the hair does not dry out. I can’t say that I made the mask regularly to show impressive results, especially I don’t chase length.

Photo 1 – April 26

Photo 2 – May 29

Hair grew by almost 3 cm in a month.

The extract is introduced at the end of the technological process simultaneously with the addition of perfume oil, perfume.

A couple of tips:

• Extracts are introduced into the cooled emulsion
• In oil, the extract is less thermonuclear
• The extract is very hot! Dose it carefully, avoid skin contact undiluted
• Contraindicated in varicose veins, has a warming effect.
• Start with the lowest doses so you don’t run around like a red-bottomed and swollen baboon.
• Very hot – spread with oil, rinse with water even more painful

ATTENTION! When working with pepper extract, precautions must be taken: all work must be carried out carefully, work only with gloves. It is forbidden to taste the pepper extract. It is forbidden to eat, drink and rub your eyes during work in order to avoid getting the extract on the mucous membranes. Wash your hands thoroughly after work.

I love red pepper extract!

Efficient and very economical, opens up a lot of room for creativity. Red pepper extract will leave only positive impressions, with careful use.

I advise you to choose fat-soluble extracts, pay attention to titration. I didn’t see any sense from water-soluble ones AT ALL.

Price : about 150 rubles per 10 gr.

Use with care , start with small dosages, think a few times before adding to wraps, do not use for varicose veins or predisposition.

Used with…

1. Saki lake mud

2. CA anti-cellulite tonic, manual massager

3. Electric massager

4. Spirulina

5. Grape seed oil

instructions for use, price, analogues, composition, indications

100 g of cream contains:
active substance: Standardized thick extract of cayenne pepper (Capsicum) – 662.70-1829.19 mg, which corresponds to 53 mg of capsaicinoids in terms of capsaicin;
excipients:
sorbitan stearate, macrogol stearate, glycerin 85%, medium chain triglycerides, titanium dioxide E 171, phenoxyethanol, purified water, carbomer 980, rosemary oil, sodium hydroxide.

Homogeneous cream from light yellow to yellowish brown and dark yellow with a characteristic odor.

Other local anesthetics. Capsaicin.
ATX code: N01BX04.

Herbal medicine for topical treatment of neuropathic pain.
Pharmacodynamic properties
Capsaicin, the main ingredient in cayenne pepper, is a vanilloid receptor agonist for non-myelin thin afferent nociceptive C-fibers, as well as myelin A-8 fibers. Animal experiments and clinical studies have shown that the application of cayenne pepper extract or capsaicin to apparently intact skin leads to the activation of vanilloid receptors. This causes excitation of nociceptive afferent cells, which depletes the reserves of the primary sensory neurotransmitter – substance P. This is due to the appearance of burning sensations and pain immediately after applying the cream. Following the activation of nociceptive afferent cells, a long phase of desensitization begins, accompanied by a decrease in the release of substance P. This mechanism ensures a decrease in pain impulses in sensory afferent fibers. Repeated application of capsaicin to the skin area causes a decrease in pain sensitivity and, accordingly, a stable analgesic effect for hours and weeks (depending on the frequency of application of the cream).

As an external agent for the symptomatic treatment of pain in the feet and legs in chronic pain form of diabetic polyneuropathy (as part of combination therapy) in adults. The drug has no direct effect on polyneuropathy.

The drug should not be used in case of hypersensitivity to capsaicinoids or other components of the drug. The cream should not be applied to damaged skin (open wounds, ulcers, inflammation, skin infections, eczema), mucous membranes, especially the eyes. In addition, the cream should not be used during pregnancy and lactation.

Unless otherwise indicated, adults with painful diabetic polyneuropathy should apply a 2 cm strip of cream (corresponding to 1.1 mg of capsaicinoids) to painful areas 3 times a day and rub in; let the cream absorb. Wash hands with soap after application.
The duration of treatment is up to 8 weeks. Longer use of the cream in the same area may damage sensitive nerve fibers. If there is no improvement after 8 weeks, consult your doctor.
Capsagamma Dolor® cream should not be used in children under 12 years of age due to lack of safety and efficacy data.

Rare (1 to 10 patients in 10,000): hypersensitive skin reaction.
During the first days of admission, allergic reactions (itching, burning sensation of the skin) are possible.
If the listed adverse reactions occur, as well as if a reaction occurs that is not mentioned in the instructions (leaflet), you should contact your doctor.

Cases of overdose have not been identified. If the skin burns too much, wash off excess cream with cold water and soap.
Interaction with other drugs
Do not use simultaneously with other drugs for topical application on the same area of ​​the skin.
Simultaneous application of heat at the site of application should be avoided.

In case of acute (including one-sided) pain in the legs, as well as the appearance of an ulcer, you should immediately consult a doctor. The drug is not intended for use in children. Avoid using Capsagamma Dolor® cream on damaged areas of the skin and contact with mucous membranes, especially the eyes. Wash hands with soap after application.

The drug is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation.

The drug does not affect the ability to drive vehicles and other activities that require a high concentration of attention and speed of psychomotor reactions.

40 g and 100 g each in aluminum tubes, which are placed in a cardboard box.

Keep out of the reach of children.
The medicinal product does not require special storage conditions.

4 years.
After the first opening 3 months (tube 40 g), 6 months (tube 100 g).
Do not use the drug after the expiry date indicated on the package.

Without a doctor’s prescription.

Manufacturer information

Wörwag Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Calverstrasse 7, 71034 Böblingen, Germany manufactured by K.