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Arthritis pain: Treatments absorbed through your skin
Content
What are topical pain medications?
What types of ingredients are used?
How well do they work?
Are they safe to use?
Are there topical pain products available by prescription?
What types of ingredients are used?
Active ingredients in over-the-counter topical pain medications can include:
- Capsaicin. Capsaicin (kap-SAY-ih-sin) causes the burning sensation you associate with chili peppers. Capsaicin creams deplete your nerve cells of a chemical that's important for sending pain messages. Examples include Capzasin and Zostrix. Capsaicin is most effective if used several times a day. It might take up to two weeks to feel relief.
- Salicylates. Salicylates (suh-LIS-uh-lates) contain the pain-relieving substance found in aspirin. Examples include Aspercreme and Bengay.
- Counterirritants. Substances such as menthol and camphor produce a sensation of hot or cold that may temporarily override your ability to feel your arthritis pain. Examples include Icy Hot and Biofreeze.
- Anesthetics. Topical anesthetics such as lidocaine produce a numb sensation to reduce pain. Lidocaine is available in the form of a cream, gel, spray or patch. Examples include LidoPatch and Topicaine.