Capsaicin

Capsaicin is an extract from the capsaicin plant and is a licensed medicine. Capsaicin is also known as cayenne, or red pepper, and is the substance that makes chili peppers hot. It is typically used externally for painful conditions, including osteoarthritis, post-herpetic neuralgia and painful diabetic neuropathy. It is sometimes used for muscle or joint pain. Capsaicin is available in different strengths, either as a topical treatment (cream) or a transdermal patch. Eating capsaicin in chili peppers produces a euphoria in some people as a response to the heat.

Topical cream
Common and very common side effects:


 * Transient burning

Rare:


 * cough; eye irritation; sneezing

Other:


 * dyspnea; exacerbation of asthma

Transdermal patches
Common and very common side effects:


 * Transient burning; application site reactions; erythema; pruritus

Uncommon:


 * burning sensation; cough; dysgeusia; eye irritation; first degree AV block; hypertension; hypoaesthesia; muscle spasm; nausea; pain in extremities; palpitations; peripheral edema; pruritus; tachycardia; throat irritation

Risks
Capsaicin has a moderate risk of interactions with other medications, and may interact with herbal or natural remedies.

Transdermal patches must be handled with nitrile gloves; latex gloves do not provide enough protection. Hands must be washed immediately after use, or within 30 mins if applying topical Capsaicin to hands. There have been a number of cases of burns caused by Capsaicin. It may also lower blood sugar.

Costs and availability
Capsaicin is available in different strengths and forms, with some available over-the-counter and others only available on prescription. Brand names include Zacin (0.025% cream), Axsain, and Qutenza (8% transdermal).

Learn more

 * Medline


 * BNF drug guide, in use in the NHS.


 * FDA Consumer Updates