Capsaicin Topical Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 22, 2023.

Applies to capsaicin topical: topical cream, topical lotion, topical patch extended release, topical solution.

Serious side effects of capsaicin topical

Along with its needed effects, capsaicin topical may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking capsaicin topical:

More common - all forms

• Burning, itching, dryness, pain, redness, swelling, or soreness at the application site

Less common - all forms

• Body aches or pain
• chest tightness
• chills
• cough
• difficulty with breathing
• dry or productive cough
• ear congestion
• fever
• headache
• loss of voice
• sneezing
• sore throat
• stuffy or runny nose
• unusual tiredness or weakness

Less common - patch only

• Blurred vision
• breakdown of the skin
• dizziness
• nervousness
• pain in the arms or legs
• pounding in the ears
• slow or fast heartbeat

Incidence not known - patch only

• Bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet
• burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings
• eye irritation or pain
• increased sensitivity to pain or touch
• scarring of the skin
• stabbing pain
• throat irritation
• unusual weight gain or loss

Other side effects of capsaicin topical

Some side effects of capsaicin topical may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Less common - patch only

• Muscle aches
• nausea
• pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones
• vomiting

Incidence not known - patch only

• Abnormal skin odor
• change in or loss of taste

For healthcare professionals

Applies to capsaicin topical: compounding powder, topical cream, topical film, topical gel, topical kit, topical liquid, topical lotion, topical stick.

General

The most commonly reported side effects were application site erythema and application site pain.^[Ref]

Local

• Very common (10% or more): Application site erythema (63%), application site pain (42%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Application site pruritus, application site papules, application site edema, application site swelling, application site dryness
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Application site urticaria, application site paresthesia, application site dermatitis, application site hyperesthesia, application site excoriation, application site warmth, application site anesthesia, application site bruising, application site inflammation, application site exfoliation^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Common (1% to 10%): Hypertension
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): First degree atrio-ventricular (AV) block, tachycardia, palpitations, increased blood pressure^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Herpes zoster, pruritus
• Frequency not reported: Abnormal skin odor, second degree burns^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Common (1% to 10%): Nasopharyngitis, bronchitis, sinusitis
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Cough, throat irritation
• Frequency not reported: Sneezing, dyspnea, wheezing, exacerbation of asthma, irritation of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract (such as nasal and throat irritation)^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Common (1% to 10%): Nausea^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Pain in extremity, muscle spasms^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Dysgeusia, hypoesthesia, burning sensation
• Frequency not reported: Headache, peripheral sensory neuropathy, dizziness, dysgeusia, hyperesthesia^[Ref]

Ocular

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Eye irritation
• Frequency not reported: Irritation of the mucous membranes of the eyes, runny eyes^[Ref]

Other

• Frequency not reported: Peripheral edema^[Ref]

Frequently asked questions

• Does Qutenza contain red chili peppers?

Further information

Capsaicin topical side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer