Drug Database - Zostrix

Generic Name: none

Brand Names: Capsaicin®, Capzasin-P®, Icy Hot®,
Rid-a-Pain®, Zostrix®

Classification: Topical Pain Relievers

Issue Date: 1995

Zostrix causes a decrease in a substance in the body (substance P) that causes pain. Zostrix is used to relieve minor aches and pains of muscle and joints associated with arthritis, simple backache, strains, and sprains. Zostrix may also be used under medical supervision for the relief of some types of neuralgia (nerve pain).

Do not use Zostrix more often or for longer than is directed. Talk to your healthcare provider if your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen.

Do not use a product like this if you have any of the following:

• in wounds
• on skin that is burned
• on skin that is damaged
• on skin that is broken
• on skin that is irritated
• allergic to:
• Zostrix
• hot peppers
• other medicines
• foods
• dyes
• preservatives
• breast-feeding
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

Before using Zostrix, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare professional if you have:

• allergies (especially to plants)
• have any other serious medical conditions
• if you use other topical prescription or over-the-counter skin products such as:
• fentanyl pain patches, etc.

Zostrix is intended for external use on the skin only. Do not swallow the medication.

Do not use Zostrix in wounds or on skin that is burned, broken, damaged, or irritated. Do not apply Zostrix in or near the eyes, in the nose, or in the mouth. If this occurs, wash with water. If irritation persists, seek medical attention.

Zostrix should be applied regularly, as directed, to get the best results from the medication. Pain relief may occur gradually, as the substance P is decreased in the nerve cells. Relief may be decreased or delayed if Zostrix is not applied regularly as directed.

Apply a thin film of the medication to the affected area, and gently massage the skin until the medicine is fully absorbed. For best results, Zostrix should be applied 3 to 4 times a day. Avoid thick application of Zostrix.

Wash your hands immediately after application of the medication to avoid spreading the medication to the mucous membranes, eyes, contact lenses, and other sensitive areas. Since a small amount of Zostrix may still remain on the hands after washing, avoid touching the eyes, nose, mouth, contact lenses, or other sensitive areas of the body after use.

If you are using Zostrix to treat a hand condition, wait 30 minutes after application before washing your hands. Avoid touching the eyes, nose, mouth, contact lenses, or other sensitive areas until the medication has been washed off.

A localized burning sensation may occur with application of Zostrix. This sensation is typically mild, and generally decreases with regular use of the product. If the sensation becomes painful or unbearable, wash the area with soap and cool water. Heat and excessive perspiration may intensify the burning sensation.

Do not wrap or bandage the area after application of Zostrix. Do not apply Zostrix immediately before or after activities such as bathing, swimming, sun bathing, or strenuous exercise. Do not apply external heat to the treated area immediately before or after applying Zostrix.

Do not inhale the dried residue of Zostrix which can cause coughing, sneezing, tearing, and/or throat or lung irritation. If difficulty breathing or swallowing occurs, seek medical attention.

Do not use Zostrix more often or for longer than is directed. Talk to your healthcare provider if your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen. Store Zostrix at room temperature away from moisture and heat, out of the reach of children and pets.

• The safety of Zostrix cream in pregnant or nursing women hasn't been established

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Do not use a product like this if you have any of the following:

• broken skin
• irritated skin
• an unusual or allergic reaction to:
• Zostrix
• hot peppers
• other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• breast-feeding
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

A Note of Caution - At least one article in the scientific literature indicates that there have been no large scale studies of long term effects of Zostrix in the digestive tract of patients whose health has been compromised by surgery or long term neuropathy. An article summarized in Science/Health Abstracts indicates that Zostrix can have significant toxic effects within the body.

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and use the next regularly scheduled dose as directed. Do not apply a double dose of this medication.

Side Effects

Stop using Zostrix and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor IMMEDIATELY if you experience any of the following RARE but SERIOUS side effects:

• an allergic reaction:
• difficulty breathing
• closing of the throat
• swelling of the lips, tongue, or face
• or hives
• severe skin irritation or skin ulceration (skin wound)

Other less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use Zostrix and talk to your healthcare provider if you experience:

• mild irritation, redness, or burning at the application site

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Continue to use Zostrix and talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Do not use any other skin products on the affected area without asking your doctor or health care professional. Be sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are using pain patches.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.