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Capsaicin

Capsaicin

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Most insurance accepted

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Available nationwide

What is Capsaicin?

Capzasin is a topical analgesic containing capsaicin—the active component of chili peppers—used to relieve localized pain from conditions including arthritis, neuropathy, and musculoskeletal pain. It works by depleting substance P, a neurotransmitter in sensory nerve fibers responsible for transmitting pain signals. With repeated use, the nerve endings in the treated area become temporarily desensitized, reducing pain perception over time. It must be applied consistently several times daily for several weeks before the full pain-relieving effect builds—and it typically causes a burning or stinging sensation initially that diminishes with continued use.

Substance P depletion

Capsaicin activates TRPV1 receptors on sensory nerve endings, initially triggering the release of substance P and causing the familiar burning sensation—with repeated use, substance P stores are depleted and the nerve becomes desensitized to pain signals.

Progressive desensitization

The pain-relieving effect builds over 1–2 weeks of consistent use as sensory nerve fibers become temporarily inactivated—patients must persist through the initial burning phase to reach the therapeutic desensitized state.

Non-opioid localized pain relief

Provides meaningful pain reduction for arthritis, diabetic neuropathy, and post-herpetic neuralgia through a non-opioid, non-systemic mechanism—useful for patients who want to minimize systemic pain medication or who need targeted relief for a specific joint or area.

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Ongoing support, always available.

Your care doesn’t end after your visit. Message your care team anytime to discuss side effects, ask questions about your medication, or request a refill.

We stay proactive so your care stays steady — adjusting your plan as needed and keeping you informed every step of the way.

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