Capsaicin Cream for Neuropathy, Arthritis & Nerve Pain Relief
Table of Contents
- Capsaicin Cream for Neuropathy & Arthritis: How It Compares to Menthol, Lidocaine, and Diclofenac Creams
- Capsaicin vs Menthol, Lidocaine, and Diclofenac Creams
- What Is Capsaicin Cream?
- Capsaicin Cream for Neuropathy
- Capsaicin Cream for Arthritis
- Capsaicin Cream for Nausea?
- How Capsaicin Compares to Other Topical Pain Relievers
- When to Choose Each Type
- Capsaicin: Best for chronic nerve pain or arthritis where long-term relief is the goal
- Menthol / Methyl Salicylate / Camphor: Great for short-term muscle relief and a cooling effect
- Lidocaine: Ideal for shingles, nerve blocks, or sore spots needing fast numbing
- Diclofenac: Most effective for inflammatory arthritis and joint swelling
- Side Effects to Watch Out For
- Final Thoughts
- Products Mentioned in this Blog Post
- About xeteor.com
- FAQs
Capsaicin Cream for Neuropathy & Arthritis: How It Compares to Menthol, Lidocaine, and Diclofenac Creams
Capsaicin cream has become a popular option for topical pain relief, especially for managing neuropathy, arthritis, and joint pain. Products like Zostrix and Rugby Capsaicin Cream deliver targeted pain relief by using capsaicin—the compound that gives chili peppers their heat—to desensitize nerve receptors. But how does capsaicin compare to other pain relief creams that use menthol, lidocaine, or diclofenac? In this article, we’ll break down how each works, their pros and cons, and which might be best for your specific type of pain.
Capsaicin vs Menthol, Lidocaine, and Diclofenac Creams
| Ingredient | Common Uses | How It Works | Example Brand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capsaicin | Neuropathy, arthritis, shingles | Depletes substance P to reduce pain signals | Zostrix, Rugby Capsaicin Cream |
| Menthol | Minor muscle aches, back pain | Cools skin to mask pain temporarily | Icy Hot, Bengay |
| Lidocaine | Nerve pain, localized injury | Numbs the area by blocking nerve signals | Aspercreme Lidocaine, Salonpas |
| Diclofenac | Arthritis pain (joints) | NSAID that reduces inflammation | Voltaren Arthritis Gel |
What Is Capsaicin Cream?
Capsaicin cream is a topical pain reliever made from the active compound found in chili peppers. It works by depleting substance P—a neurotransmitter that carries pain signals to the brain. While it doesn't provide instant relief like menthol or lidocaine, capsaicin can significantly reduce chronic pain over time with regular use.
How fast does capsaicin cream work? Most people begin to feel results after 1 to 2 weeks of consistent application, with maximum relief often appearing after several weeks.
Common Capsaicin Strengths
- 0.025% – Mild to moderate pain (Rugby Capsaicin Cream – Compare to Zostrix)
- 0.075% – Moderate to severe nerve pain (Rugby Arthritis Pain Relieving Cream – Compare to Zostrix HP)
- 0.1% – High-potency, typically used under medical guidance for persistent nerve pain
Where to Buy Rugby Capsaicin Cream
Looking for a great deal on capsaicin cream? Our online store offers Rugby Capsaicin Cream 0.025% – 3 Pack and 4 Pack with free shipping and deep discounts. Same active ingredient as Zostrix®, without the high price.
Capsaicin Cream for Neuropathy
Topical capsaicin is frequently recommended for peripheral neuropathy, including diabetic nerve pain and postherpetic neuralgia (pain after shingles). Clinical studies show that when applied regularly, capsaicin cream gradually desensitizes overactive pain nerves, helping reduce symptoms like tingling, burning, and shooting pain.
Many patients turn to capsaicin as a natural alternative to oral medications or steroid creams. For mild nerve discomfort, a lower strength like 0.025% may be enough. For more intense or chronic pain, the high-strength version like 0.075% offers stronger relief.
Pros:
- Non-systemic – does not affect the liver, kidneys, or other organs
- Targets pain directly at the source
- Well-suited for long-term management
Cons:
- May cause a temporary burning or stinging sensation
- Requires consistent use for 1–2 weeks before full effects are felt
Capsaicin Cream for Arthritis
Capsaicin cream can also relieve pain from osteoarthritis, particularly in the knees and hands. Unlike NSAIDs, it doesn't reduce inflammation but instead alters how the nerves perceive pain. This makes it a solid choice for those who can't tolerate oral pain medications.
Capsaicin Cream for Nausea?
While not a common use, there's emerging research suggesting capsaicin may reduce nausea in chemotherapy patients when applied to the skin. The proposed mechanism is sensory distraction: by stimulating nerve endings in the skin, capsaicin may help override nausea signals. This is still experimental and not FDA-approved for this use.
Always consult a healthcare provider before using capsaicin cream for nausea.
How Capsaicin Compares to Other Topical Pain Relievers
| Cream Type | Active Ingredient | Best For | Popular Brands | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capsaicin | Capsaicin 0.025–0.075% | Nerve pain, arthritis | Zostrix, Rugby | Requires consistent use, burning sensation |
| Menthol | Menthol, Camphor, Methyl Salicylate | Muscle aches, cooling | Icy Hot, Bengay, Rugby | Fast-acting but short-lived |
| Lidocaine | Lidocaine 4–5% | Localized nerve pain | Salonpas, Aspercreme | Numbs pain instantly, temporary relief |
| Diclofenac | NSAID (1%) | Arthritis, inflammation | Voltaren | Reduces inflammation, takes time to work |
Zostrix vs Rugby Capsaicin Cream - Is the generic version just as good?
When to Choose Each Type
Capsaicin: Best for chronic nerve pain or arthritis where long-term relief is the goal
Menthol / Methyl Salicylate / Camphor: Great for short-term muscle relief and a cooling effect
Lidocaine: Ideal for shingles, nerve blocks, or sore spots needing fast numbing
Diclofenac: Most effective for inflammatory arthritis and joint swelling
Side Effects to Watch Out For
- Capsaicin: Burning, stinging, redness. Avoid touching eyes or mucous membranes.
- Menthol/Camphor: Cooling or warming sensations; occasional rash.
- Lidocaine: Numbness, rare allergic reactions.
- Diclofenac: Dry skin, irritation, potential systemic effects with long-term use.
Comparison of Common Topical Pain Relief Creams
| Cream | How It Works | Onset | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capsaicin | Depletes substance P (pain transmitter) | Slow (1–2 weeks with regular use) | Nerve pain, arthritis, shingles |
| Menthol | Activates cold receptors (counterirritant) | Immediate | Muscle soreness, back pain |
| Lidocaine | Blocks nerve signals locally | Fast (within minutes) | Nerve pain, post-surgical areas |
| Diclofenac | Reduces inflammation (NSAID) | Moderate (few days of use) | Arthritis, joint inflammation |
Final Thoughts
Capsaicin cream may not deliver instant results, but it’s one of the few topical products that works by changing how your body feels pain, rather than masking it. Whether you’re dealing with diabetic nerve pain, arthritis, or simply want a non-pill alternative, capsaicin is worth considering.
See also: Zostrix vs Rugby Capsaicin Cream – Same Ingredients, Costs Less
Looking to try capsaicin cream for nerve or joint pain? Shop Rugby Capsaicin Cream 0.025% — same strength as Zostrix, trusted by pharmacists, and available with free shipping at xeteor.com.
Products Mentioned in this Blog Post
Rugby Capsaicin Cream 0.025% - 2 oz | Zostrix
$6.99
Rugby Capsaicin Cream 0.025% – 2 oz | Zostrix Alternative Same strength as Zostrix® — just $6.99. Rugby Capsaicin Cream 0.025% is a trusted topical...… read more
Rugby Capsaicin Cream 0.025% - 2 oz | Zostrix (3 Pack)
$17.97
Rugby Capsaicin Cream 0.025% – 2 oz (3 Pack) | Zostrix Alternative Only $17.97 for 3 tubes – just $5.99 each with FREE shipping! Looking...… read more
Rugby Capsaicin Cream 0.025% - 2 oz | Zostrix (4 Pack)
$22.96
Rugby Capsaicin Cream 0.025% – 2 oz (4 Pack) | Best Bulk Value Only $22.96 for 4 tubes – just $5.74 each with FREE shipping!...… read more
Rugby Arthritis Pain Relieving Cream - 2 oz | Zostrix HP
$7.99
Rugby Arthritis Pain Relieving Cream – 0.075% Capsaicin (2 oz) | Compare to Zostrix HP® Looking for a stronger capsaicin cream? Rugby’s high-potency formula contains...… read more
Rugby Arthritis Pain Relieving Cream - 2 oz | Zostrix HP (2 Pack)
$14.98
Rugby Capsaicin Cream 0.075% – 2 oz (2 Pack) | Zostrix HP Alternative Only $14.98 for 2 tubes – just $7.49 each with free shipping!...… read more
Rugby Arthritis Pain Relieving Cream - 2 oz | Zostrix HP (3 Pack)
$18.99
Rugby Capsaicin Cream 0.075% – 2 oz (3 Pack) | Strong Zostrix HP® Alternative Need powerful pain relief for arthritis or nerve pain? This 3-pack...… read more
Rugby Muscle Rub Cream - 3 oz | Bengay
$6.99
Rugby Muscle Rub Cream – 3 oz | Compare to Bengay Rugby Muscle Rub Cream (3 oz) is a greaseless, fast-absorbing topical analgesic that delivers...… read more
Rugby Pain Relieving Cream – 3 oz | Compare to Thera-Gesic
$6.99
Rugby Pain Relieving Cream – 3 oz | Maximum Strength | Compare to Thera-Gesic® Experience powerful, fast-acting relief with Rugby Pain Relieving Cream — the...… read more
Oncor Lidocaine Cream 4% - 1.05 oz | Aspercreme
$11.99
Oncor Lidocaine 4% Cream – Topical Anesthetic for Pain Relief Fast-Acting Relief for Everyday Skin DiscomfortOncor Lidocaine 4% Cream is a powerful topical anesthetic designed...… read more
Rugby Diclofenac Sodium Gel 1% - 3.53 oz | Voltaren (4 Pack)
$49.96
Rugby Diclofenac Sodium Topical Gel 1% - 3.53 oz | Voltaren (4 Pack) Google Says to Eat at Least One Small Rock per Day (Don't...… read more
Always talk to a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, especially if you have sensitive skin, allergies, or chronic health conditions.
About xeteor.com
xeteor.com, started in 2018 is based in Las Vegas, Nevada and is online pharmacy focusing on discount over-the-counter generic medications and diabetic test strips. We find deals normally reserved for "big pharma" and offer them to the consumer at discount prices. Ranking as the #1 authorized online reseller of Major Pharmaceuticals & Rugby Laboratories products according to Trustpilot.com, xeteor.com has 8,000+ 5-star reviews online, including Amazon, eBay, Trustpilot, and Google. xeteor.com is a Google Top Quality Store, earned by merchants that provide a great shopping experience.
Shipping Time & Cost
All items ship same day when purchased by 3 pm PST Monday - Friday. We offer free shipping nationwide with a $30 minimum order; however, we offer savings packs which ship free. Shipping times are between 3 to 8 business days, with an average of 3.3 business days. A link to our full shipping policy is here.
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We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not satisfied with the product, you may return it up to 100 days from the date of purchase. We offer free return shipping to ensure you can try the product risk free. A link to our full return policy is here.
How to Reach Us?
If you have questions about the product or need assistance, we are happy to talk on the phone. Call us at 1-833-787-4777 between 9 am - 5 pm PST Monday - Friday. You can also email us at [email protected] or text us at 702-659-7022. A link to our full contact us page is here.
Disclaimer: This post is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this post.
FAQs
What is capsaicin cream used for?
Capsaicin cream is a topical pain reliever used to reduce discomfort from nerve pain (like diabetic neuropathy or shingles), arthritis, muscle aches, and joint pain. It works by depleting substance P, a chemical that helps transmit pain signals.
How long does it take for capsaicin cream to work?
Relief typically builds gradually. Most people begin noticing reduced pain after 1–2 weeks of consistent use, with full effects in 2–4 weeks. It’s important to apply it 3 to 4 times daily as directed.
Is capsaicin cream safe to use every day?
Yes. Capsaicin cream is safe for daily, long-term use when applied as directed. Because it doesn’t enter the bloodstream, it avoids many side effects associated with oral pain medications. However, avoid applying it to broken or irritated skin.
What are the side effects of capsaicin cream?
The most common side effect is a burning or stinging sensation at the application site, especially during the first few days. This usually lessens with continued use. Less commonly, redness or irritation may occur. Always wash hands thoroughly after applying.
What’s the difference between Zostrix and generic capsaicin cream?
Zostrix is a brand-name capsaicin cream, while generic versions—like Rugby Capsaicin Cream—contain the same active ingredient (usually 0.025%) at a more affordable price. Generics work just as effectively for most people and are often preferred for long-term use.
Can I use capsaicin cream for shingles or nerve pain?
Yes. Capsaicin cream is commonly used to relieve nerve pain caused by shingles (postherpetic neuralgia) and other types of neuropathy. It won’t cure the condition but can help reduce burning, tingling, and shooting pain when used regularly.
