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Heart Health Library

Our Health Library does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their heart health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Capsaicin/Menthol Medicated Patch (CAPSAICIN/MENTHOL PATCH - TOPICAL)

For pain.

Generic Name: Capsaicin/Menthol

Instructions

DO NOT take this medicine by mouth.

Apply the medicine to the affected area.

Remove the patch after 8 hours.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

Follow the instructions on the package to use this medicine correctly.

This patch should not be cut.

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

Remove old patch before applying new one. Change the location of the new patch.

Remove the plastic liner that protects the sticky side of the patch before applying to the skin.

Be sure the area of skin is clean and dry before putting on a new patch.

Do not use soap, oils, or alcohol on the area of the skin before applying the patch. Use only water and gently pat dry. Do not rub the skin.

Apply the patch to a clean, dry, hairless area. Avoid skin that is red, scraped, or damaged.

Do not shave the hair. It irritates the skin. If needed, use scissors to cut the hair close to the skin.

Do not shower, bathe, or swim for at least 1 hour before applying the patch.

Do not apply the patch right after showering or bathing.

Press the patch firmly for a few seconds to make sure it stays in place.

If the patch does not stick, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Do not cover the patch with bandage or tape unless instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.

If the edges of the patch begin to peel up you may tape the edges down with first aid tape. Do not cover the entire patch.

After removing the patch, fold it together and discard it out of reach of children and pets.

Do not dispose of a used patch by flushing it into the toilet.

Avoid getting the medicine in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash your hands after touching patch.

If the patch causes a feeling of burning or pain at the location of the patch, remove the patch until the feeling goes away.

If the skin under the patch becomes irritated, remove the patch. Do not apply a new patch to the area until the skin feels better.

Do not apply heat on the area with the patch. Avoid heating blankets, suntan beds, or hot tubs.

Do not bathe, swim or shower while wearing the patch.

Clothing may be worn over the patch.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

You may stop using this medicine if you no longer have symptoms.

This medicine is available over-the-counter and does not require a prescription.

Do not use more than 1 patch at any one time.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Ask your doctor if patch should be removed before having an MRI scan to avoid serious burns.

Contact your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or worsens after 7 days of using this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • burning or stinging
  • itching
  • skin irritation where medicine is applied

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • blistering or peeling of the skin

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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