Capsaicin/menthol topical

Dosage Forms & Strengths

topical gel

• 0.025%/10%

Analgesia for Minor Muscle/Joint Pain

Apply topically to affected area TID/QID for 3-4 consecutive weeks and evaluate efficacy; not to exceed 4 applications/day

Wash hands and avoid touching eyes after applying

Apply patch to affected area

Safety and efficacy not established

Frequency Not Defined

Capsaicin causes transient increased pain at application site (substance P release)

Stinging/burning/tingling sensation of skin

Mechanism of Action

Capsaicin: Transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1) agonist; topical application causes initial TRPV1 stimulation that may cause transient pain, followed by pain relief by reduction in TRPV1-expressing nociceptive nerve endings

Menthol: Local anesthesia

This medication is used to treat minor aches and pains of the muscles/joints (such as arthritis, backache, sprains). Capsaicin works by decreasing a certain natural substance in your body (substance P) that helps pass pain signals to the brain. Menthol works by causing the skin to feel cool and then warm. These feelings on the skin distract you from feeling the aches/pains deeper in your muscles and joints.

How to use Capsaicin-Menthol Adhesive Patch, Medicated

Use this medication on the skin only. Clean and dry the affected area. Remove the backing from the patch and apply the patch to the affected area. Do not apply this medication to skin that is injured or irritated (such as skin that is cut, scraped, sunburned, infected, or has a rash). Leave the patch on the affected area for up to 8 hours. Use this medication as directed by your doctor or follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Take the patch off at least 1 hour before bathing and do not apply the patch right away after bathing. Do not bandage or wrap the area where the patch is applied unless directed to do so by the doctor. Do not use a heating pad on the patch. Doing so may increase the risk of side effects.

Wash your hands well after handling the patch. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, mouth, nostrils, or genitals. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water.

After removing each patch, fold the used patch with the sticky sides together, and throw away in the trash away from children and pets.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts for more than 7 days, if it gets worse, or if it keeps returning. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

Capsaicin is very similar to zucapsaicin. Do not use medications containing zucapsaicin while using capsaicin.