Zostrix Cream Description

Zostrix Cream (Regular Strength) contains capsaicin, a natural chemical found in hot chili peppers that give them their ‘kick’ when eaten. By formulating a topical medicine with capsaicin, such as Zostrix Cream, people are finding relief from the pain of arthritis as well as the ‘after-pain’ of shingles called post herpetic neuralgia.

Regular Strength Zostrix Cream has .025% capsaicin and is available without a prescription. Many of those who experience arthritic pain or post herpetic pain from shingles are finding a safe and effective solution by applying Zostrix Cream as directed. There are no known systemic side effects with Zostrix Cream and no concern about drug interactions.

Pain Relief From Arthritis and Post Herpetic Neuralgia

During the first few applications of Zostrix Cream, you may experience a burning sensation. This is normal as Zostrix Cream is absorbed into your skin and will fade with continued use as your body adjusts to it. The active ingredient, capsaicin, works with your own body chemistry to reduce the level of Substance P, a neuropeptide that acts as a neurotransmitter and pain messenger. The longer you apply Zostrix Cream, the less Substance P so your pain is less intense and, in some cases, you may be pain-free.

Conditions Treated by Zostrix Cream

If you had chickenpox as a child, the virus actually remains in your body even though you have recovered. Some people will never be bothered by the virus again, but others may develop shingles. This is a blistering rash that affects nerve pathways found on or around your head, face, neck, or waist and will only affect one side or the other. The rash itself is painful enough and can make wearing clothing, bathing, working, or sleeping very difficult, while many of those that experience post herpetic pain (PHP) claim this pain is worse.

Once the blisters have healed and disappeared, usually in 3 to 5 weeks, some people will still be affected by intermittent and extremely bad pains in the area affected by shingles known as post herpetic pain. These pains can last weeks, months, and even years. Zostrix Cream will help lessen the pain so you are able to carry on with your daily tasks in comfort. Shingles is not contagious; however you can catch chickenpox if you never had it as a child, so stay clear of anyone with an active bout of shingles.

Before You Apply Zostrix Cream

If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding, talk to your doctor about the safety of using Zostrix Cream. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist about any interactions that could occur while using Zostrix Cream and treating other skin problems.

Zostrix Cream Proper Use

Make sure to thoroughly wash and dry your hands before and after applying Zostrix Cream. This will help you avoid accidentally rubbing your eyes or putting your fingers to your mouth and experiencing the burn of capsaicin. Keep out of the reach of children and never share any medications with others. Do not apply Zostrix Cream to areas with blistered or broken skin or if sunburned.

Possible Side Effects of Zostrix Cream

• Burning sensation where applied
• Dryness
• Itching

Drugs Similar to Zostrix Cream

• Zostrix HP Cream
• Lidoderm Patch