Zostrix: Uses, indications and precautions when using

Zostrix (Capsaicin) is a medicine to relieve pain in muscles and joints such as sprains, arthritis, back pain... The drug should be applied topically according to the instructions and indications of the doctor.

Zostrix (Capsaicin) is commonly used to treat mild pain and tenderness in muscles and joints (eg, arthritis, back pain, sprains). Zostrix works by reducing certain natural neurotransmitters that transmit pain signals to the brain called substance P.

Zostrix is ​​usually applied topically as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the package. For Zostrix cream, gel and lotion, apply a thin layer to the affected skin, with gentle massage. You can use a cotton swab or rubber gloves to avoid touching the medication with your hands. Do not let the medicine come into contact with the eyes, mouth, nostrils or genitals. If you accidentally get the medicine in those areas, wash it off with plenty of water. Also, avoid applying this medication to injured or irritated skin (eg, cuts, scrapes, sunburn). Do not apply Zostrix immediately before or after physical activity such as bathing, swimming, sunbathing, or heavy exercise. Do not bandage or wrap the affected area of ​​skin or apply a hot patch over it. Because doing so may increase your risk of side effects. After applying Zostrix, wash your hands thoroughly with water unless you are using this medicine to treat your hands. If the treatment is on hands, wait at least 30 minutes after applying the medication before washing your hands. Apply this medication regularly for maximum effectiveness. Sometimes it can take up to 2 months for you to feel the effects of the medicine. Always monitor and tell your doctor if your muscle or joint pain persists for more than 7 days, tends to get worse or comes back.

Like many other muscle pain relievers, Zostrix can also bring some side effects such as: Heat, redness, stinging or burning on the application site. Sometimes if you accidentally inhale the residue, you can get: Cough, sneeze, watery eyes or an itchy throat. Stop applying the medicine and tell your doctor if you notice any serious side effects such as: Blistering, swelling at the application site, feeling more pain, unusual pain at the application site. Allergic reactions to Zostrix are also rare. However, if you notice signs of a serious allergic reaction such as: itchy swelling of the face, tongue, throat, rash, difficulty breathing, severe dizziness, etc., seek medical help as soon as possible. .

Before taking Zostrix, be aware of the following:
If you are allergic to Capsaicin, Zucapsaicin, or hot peppers (from the Capsicum family); or Lidocaine or other local anesthetic that may be on your brand; or if you have any other allergies. If your skin is injured, prone to irritation in the affected area, consult your doctor or pharmacist before applying the medicine. If you are going to have a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, tell the testing staff if you are using the patch. Some patches may contain ingredients that can cause burns during an MRI scan. Ask your doctor if you need to remove the patch before the scan and test. During pregnancy, Zostrix should only be used when absolutely necessary. It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Please discuss the risks and benefits of this medicine before breast-feeding. Before using Capsaicin products that contain Lidocaine or other local anesthetics, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are also taking a class I antiarrhythmic drug (such as Mexiletine, Quinidine). Capsaicin is very similar to Zucapsaicin. Therefore, drugs containing Zucapsaicin should not be used while taking Capsaicin.

Zostrix is ​​dangerous if accidentally swallowed. If you overdose on Zostrix and you notice symptoms such as fainting or shortness of breath, you need to take the patient to the emergency room immediately. Store Zostrix according to the instructions on the package. If you have any questions about storage, consult your pharmacist. Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets

Reference source: Webmd