What it is used for

Pain from osteoarthritis (cream)
Nerve pain after shingles (postherpetic neuralgia) and diabetic nerve pain (cream or high-strength patches)
Other localised nerve pain (high-strength patches, in a pain clinic)

Read our guides:

Osteoarthritis

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Capsaicin is not commonly used off-label.

How it works

Capsaicin first stimulates pain nerves in the skin, which causes a burning feeling. With regular use, it reduces a chemical called substance P and makes these nerves less sensitive, so they send fewer pain signals.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Capsaicin can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

burning or stinging where it is applied in the first few weeks
redness of the skin

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

severe burning, blistering or swelling of the skin
coughing or breathing problems if the cream is breathed in

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

Wash your hands well after using the cream and keep it away from your eyes, nose and mouth.
Do not use it on broken or irritated skin.
It can take 2 to 4 weeks of regular use to work.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.