Capsaicin
Capsaicin is a topical analgesic derived from chili peppers that provides relief for various pain conditions by depleting substance P from sensory nerve endings. It is primarily used for arthritis pain, neuropathic pain, and muscle aches when applied to the skin.
Capsaicin is a topical pain reliever for arthritis, nerve pain, and muscle aches that works by depleting pain-signaling chemicals in nerves.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- M02AX10
- RxNorm
- 2193
- Generic
- Capsaicin
- Class
- atc-m02
- Brands
- Dendracin Neurodendraxcin, WellPatch, Medrox, ZIKS Pain Relief, Arth-RX, Medi-Derm, Xoten-C, Arthur Itis, Medi-Derm with Lidocaine, LidoPro, Doloracin with Lidocaine, Equi-Block Original, Zostrix Joint & Arthritis Pain Relief, Satogesic Hot, Capzasin-P
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 0
- Onset (min)
- 0
- Duration (h)
- 0
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- cream, gel, lotion, ointment, patch
- Regions
- United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, European Union
- Monitoring
- local skin reactions
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Capsaicin is used to treat neuropathic pain conditions (such as post-herpetic neuralgia and diabetic neuropathy), osteoarthritis pain, rheumatoid arthritis pain, and musculoskeletal pain including back pain and muscle strains. It is available in various formulations including creams, gels, patches, and lotions for topical application.
Capsaicin works by binding to and activating TRPV1 receptors on sensory nerve endings, causing initial excitation and pain sensation. With repeated application, it leads to depletion of substance P (a neuropeptide involved in transmitting pain signals) from the nerve terminals, resulting in reduced pain sensation over time.
Capsaicin causes a warming or burning sensation upon initial application, which typically diminishes with regular use. Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and broken skin. Wash hands thoroughly after application unless treating hand pain. Effects may take 1-2 weeks of regular use to become noticeable. Do not use on infants or young children without medical supervision.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy