capsaicin topical Health Article

What happens if I miss a dose?

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.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected or if the medication has been ingested.

Symptoms of a capsaicin topical overdose may difficulty swallowing or breathing or severe skin irritation.

What should I avoid while using capsaicin topical?

Do not wrap or bandage the area after application of capsaicin topical. Do not apply capsaicin topical 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 capsaicin topical. Do not use capsaicin topical 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 inhale the dried residue of capsaicin topical which can cause coughing, sneezing, tearing, and/or throat or lung irritation. If difficulty breathing or swallowing occurs, seek medical attention.

What are the possible side effects of capsaicin topical?

Stop using capsaicin topical 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); or

• severe skin irritation or skin ulceration (skin wound).

Other less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use capsaicin topical 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 capsaicin topical and talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect capsaicin topical?

Although capsaicin topical is unlikely to affect medicines taken by mouth, talk to your doctor before using capsaicin topical if you are taking any other prescription medicines. You may not be able to use capsaicin topical, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring.

Avoid using other topical products on the treated area without first talking to your doctor. Other topical products may affect the absorption or effectiveness of capsaicin topical.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with capsaicin topical. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking or using any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist has additional information about capsaicin topical written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Capsaicin topical is available over-the-counter under several brand and generic names. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.