Capsaicin
Active ingredient · 2 therapeutic classes
Sold as Qutenza · Capsadyn · Satogesic Hot · CAPSINA · Trubrexa Patch ER
- Drug class
- Other Local Anesthetics
- Availability
- Prescription and OTC
- Routes
- Topical, Transdermal
- Markets covered
- 3
- Products on record
- 22
- FDA reports (12 mo)
- 657
Overview
Plain-language summary, compiled from the cited regulatory records
Capsaicin is a topical agent used to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains in muscles and joints [1]. It belongs to the drug class of capsaicin and similar agents [1]. Capsaicin is approved for use in conditions such as simple backache, arthritis, strains, and sprains [1].
This active ingredient is available under various brand names, including Capsadyn and Trubrexa Patch ER [1]. In the past 12 months, there have been 657 adverse event reports associated with capsaicin-containing products [2]. The most frequently reported adverse reactions include burning sensation, pain, pain in extremity, application site pain, and reactions related to diabetic neuropathy [2].
This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Regulatory status by market
| Market | Regulator | Products | Last revision |
|---|---|---|---|
| US United States | FDA | 15 | May 7, 2026 |
| GB United Kingdom | MHRA | 6 | May 29, 2026 |
| EU European Union | EMA | 1 | May 5, 2026 |
USUnited States· FDA
15 products
Uses
Uses Temporarily relieves minor aches and pains of muscles and joints due to: • simple backache • arthritis • strains • sprains
How to take
GBUnited Kingdom· MHRA
6 products
Uses
1. For the symptomatic relief of neuralgia associated with and following Herpes Zoster infections (post-herpetic neuralgia) after open skin lesions have healed. 2. For the symptomatic management of painful diabetic peripheral polyneuropathy.
How to take
EUEuropean Union· EMA
1 product
Uses
Qutenza is indicated for the treatment of peripheral neuropathic pain in adults either alone or in combination with other medicinal products for the treatment of pain.
How to take
Drug interactions
Known interactions involving Capsaicin. Select one for details. This list is informational and not a complete interaction checker.
Interaction data compiled from DDInter (academic, CC-BY). Severity classification only - this is not a complete interaction checker and not medical advice.
Sources & citations
- [1]FDA DailyMed · 0090ca38-6433-45… · revised December 6, 2024 [PDF]
- [2]MHRA (UK) · PL556120090 · revised May 1, 2026
- [3]European Medicines Agency · EMEA/H/C/000909 · revised May 5, 2026
- [4]OpenFDA adverse-event reports (US), 12 months ending June 4, 2026.
Information on this page is compiled from public regulatory records. Drugvu is not affiliated with any regulator or pharmaceutical manufacturer. This is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.