Zostrix and Zostrix HP FAQs

I heard some topical creams don't work on relieving osteo-arthritis pain. Is Zostrix any different?

Answer: Zostrix is a unique topical analgesic cream that contains a key ingredient for arthritis pain relief – Purified Capsaicin. Zostrix works differently than many of the other rubs found on the shelf.

The results of many well-controlled clinical trials have demonstrated that Zostrix (regular) provides significant pain relief to a majority of patients with moderate to severe arthritis pain. It has been shown that a neurotransmitter called Substance P is involved in the transmission of the pain messages to the brain. Zostrix (purified capsaicin), is thought to work by reducing the amount of Substance P in your joints, and therefore reduces the level of pain you experience. Moreover, in many instances, pain relief was accompanied by improvements in daily living activities (eg. walking, sitting, and driving).

It is important to remember that in order to maintain the pain relief you achieve with Zostrix, you must use Zostrix consistently.

One day last week the arthritis in my knee flared. I put Zostrix on that morning, and when I went to bed that night it still wasn't working. The pain was still there. Why didn't it work for me?

Answer: You should expect gradual, not immediate pain relief from Zostrix. Zostrix works gradually to relieve arthritic pain. For optimal results, Zostrix must be applied 3 to 4 times a day, everyday. Scientists believe that a chemical in your body called Substance P builds up around arthritic joints and sends pain signals along nerve pathways to the brain. Regular application of Zostrix on the painful joint 3 to 4 times daily is believed to reduce this neurotransmitter of pain, and slows it's ability to build back up.

Although some people begin to feel a reduction in their pain within the first few days using Zostrix, the majority of people can take up to 2 weeks before they feel noticeable pain relief. However, once relief occurs it is sustainable as long as you remember to continue to use Zostrix 3 to 4 times daily. Relief may not occur, or may be delayed if Zostrix is applied less often.

I'm confused. How many times a day should I apply Zostrix or Zostrix HP, and how long do I need to use it before I feel some results?

Answer:

1. In order to provide maximum pain relief Zostrix or Zostrix HP must be applied 3 to 4 times a day, everyday. Relief may not occur, or may be delayed, if Zostrix or Zostrix HP is applied less often.
2. You should expect gradual pain relief – don't stop using Zostrix or Zostrix HP before it has had time to work. Because the depletion of Substance P takes time, relief may not occur immediately and improvement is likely to be gradual. The time required to achieve pain relief varies from individual to individual. Some people begin to feel the pain-relieving effects of Zostrix or Zostrix HP within the first few days, although most have noticeable relief within two weeks.
3. Zostrix or Zostrix HP must be used consistently to maintain its effect. In fact, Zostrix or Zostrix HP must be used daily for 4 to 6 weeks to achieve optimal benefit. Once relief occurs, Zostrix or Zostrix HP must be applied continuously 3 to 4 times per day to maintain its effect. Zostrix or Zostrix HP may be used as long as needed.

I heard from some of my friends that Zostrix and Zostrix HP "burns". Is that true? If so, is it safe?

Answer: There are no known serious side effects with Zostrix or Zostrix-HP. You may, however, experience a burning sensation upon application. If you do, do not be concerned. This sensation is related to the way Zostrix and Zostrix HP works and generally subsides with regular use. This sensation is thought to be related to the initial release of Substance P. Generally this uncomfortable feeling diminishes after the first few days of continuous use.

Here are a few tips to help minimize a burning sensation;

• Do not apply Zostrix or Zostrix HP to broken, open, or irritated skin.
• The application of heat [example: heating pad, hot shower] on the area immediately after the application of Zostrix or Zostrix HP may intensify the burning sensation.
• Avoid excessive perspiration, or bandaging the area tightly immediately following the application of Zostrix to an affected joint or Zostrix HP to an effected area.
• If you use Zostrix or Zostrix HP cream, wash hands thoroughly after application to avoid spreading Zostrix or Zostrix HP to the eyes or other sensitive areas of the body

I take a NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) daily to help manage my pain. If I use Zostrix as well, will it give me additional pain relief?

Answer: When oral medications do not totally relieve the osteoarthritis pain, topical Zostrix has been proven to provide additional pain relief. Zostrix, contains Purified Capsaicin so it behaves differently from the other topical agents. Zostrix's unique formula works directly on arthritic joints. Scientists believe that a chemical in your body called Substance P builds up around arthritic joints and sends pain signals along nerve pathways to the brain. Regular application of Zostrix on the painful joint 3 to 4 times daily is believed to reduce this neurotransmitter of pain, and to slow its ability to build back up. Thus, the less Substance P, the less pain. Therefore, when Zostrix is applied to the painful joint 3 to 4 times daily, consistently and regularly, the pain you feel should be reduced.

Clinical studies show that when arthritis suffers are already taking an oral pain medication, use of Zostrix along with their oral medication provides additional pain relief. Plus, because Zostrix has no known systemic side effects, it can be safely used in addition to regular appropriate use of oral medications. They go hand in hand to help relieve arthritic pain.