Things you should know about capsaicin

1. Capsaicin is the active component of chili peppers. It works by depleting or interfering with substance P, a chemical involved in transmitting pain impulses to the brain. The properties of capsaicin make it an option for relieving pain associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetic neuropathy. Capsaicin is used to relieve muscle pain, joint pain, or nerve pain.
2. Capsaicin is available over the counter. For pain relief, capsaicin is usually used three or four times a day. You should rub the capsaicin cream or gel into the painful area until no more cream is visible on the skin.
3. Don't use extra doses of capsaicin.
4. Capsaicin has no known drug interactions.
5. Capsaicin may cause a burning sensation. The sensation, which is expected when beginning use, may actually continue for two to four weeks. The sensation should lessen the longer you use capsaicin. Reducing the number of daily doses of capsaicin will not reduce the sensation, but it may reduce the pain relief achieved.
6. Even with regular use of capsaicin, arthritis pain relief will take some time. Pain relief from arthritis typically is evident one to two weeks after starting capsaicin. To prevent pain from returning, capsaicin must be continued. However, if pain is not better after using capsaicin for three or four weeks, talk to your doctor. It may not be worth it to continue.
7. If capsaicin gets in your eyes, immediately flush your eyes with water. To rid other sensitive areas of capsaicin and the burning feeling, wash the areas with warm soapy water. Keep capsaicin out of reach of children.
8. There are warnings about using capsaicin under certain circumstances. Before using capsaicin, tell your doctor about broken skin, skin irritation, previous allergic reactions to capsaicin, hot peppers, other drugs, dyes, foods, preservatives, breastfeeding, pregnancy or current attempts to become pregnant. Also, be aware that capsaicin should not be used by children under two years of age.