WHY is this medicine prescribed?
Capsaicin topical system is used to treat neuropathic pain from postherpetic neuralgia (PHN; the burning, stabbing pain or aches that may last for months or years after an attack of shingles) or from diabetic neuropathy (numbness or tingling due to nerve damage in people who have diabetes). Capsaicin is a substance that is found in chili peppers. Capsaicin topical system is in a class of medications called topical pain relievers. It works by affecting nerve cells in the skin that are associated with pain, which results in decreased activity of these nerve cells and a reduced sense of pain.
HOW should this medicine be used?
Capsaicin topical system comes as a patch to be applied to the skin by a healthcare provider. After applied, it will remain in place for 30 to 60 minutes before being removed and the area cleaned. You may receive the medication up to 4 times per year.
Be careful not to touch the area where capsaicin topical system has been applied. Be careful not to touch your eyes while capsaicin topical system. If you start experiencing eye irritation or trouble breathing, let your doctor or nurse know right away.
Your skin may be sensitive to heat (heating pads, electric blankets, hair dryers, heat lamps, saunas, hot tubs, baths, direct sunlight and vigorous exercise) for a few days after treatment with capsaicin topical system.
If you experience pain after having capsaicin topical system applied, your doctor may tell you to take an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen or apply cool compresses or packs. Do not use frozen cooling compresses or compacts or apply them directly to the skin (wrap a towel around it before applying) as this may cause frostbite.
Are there OTHER USES for this medication?
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
What SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS should I follow?
Before receiving capsaicin topical system,
What SPECIAL DIETARY instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
What should I do IF I FORGET to take a dose?
If you miss an appointment to receive capsaicin topical system, call your doctor as soon as possible.
What SIDE EFFECTS can this medicine cause?
Capsaicin topical system may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
Capsaicin topical system may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online (http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch) or by phone (1-800-332-1088).
What OTHER INFORMATION should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines, vitamins, minerals, and dietary supplements you are taking. Bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to the hospital. You should carry the list with you in case of emergencies.
This report on medications is for your information only, and is not considered individual patient advice. Because of the changing nature of drug information, please consult your physician or pharmacist about specific clinical use.
The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. represents that the information provided hereunder was formulated with a reasonable standard of care, and in conformity with professional standards in the field. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. makes no representations or warranties, express or implied, including, but not limited to, any implied warranty of merchantability and/or fitness for a particular purpose, with respect to such information and specifically disclaims all such warranties. Users are advised that decisions regarding drug therapy are complex medical decisions requiring the independent, informed decision of an appropriate health care professional, and the information is provided for informational purposes only. The entire monograph for a drug should be reviewed for a thorough understanding of the drug's actions, uses and side effects. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. does not endorse or recommend the use of any drug. The information is not a substitute for medical care.
AHFS® Patient Medication Information™ Copyright, 2026. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists®, 4500 East-West Highway, Suite 900, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.
Selected Revisions: July 15, 2026.