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Zostrix HP
What is Zostrix and Zostrix HP
Regular or High Potency?
Pain levels can fluctuate - everyone is unique. For this reason, Zostrix is available in two formulas.
Natural ingredients. Naturally good.
Zostrix contains a powerful natural pain reliever derived from red hot chili peppers called Capsaicin. After multiple clinical trials with Purified Capsaicin, a superior formulation was developed, which can be found in Zostrix.
Capsaicin is the active ingredient in red chili peppers. Medical uses for capsicum were first referred to in 1494. Normal strength Zostrix relieves the pain of arthritis effectively. Extra strength Zostrix relieves the pain of Post Herpetic Neuralgia and Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy.
Osteoarthritis
In clinical studies (double-blind, placebo-controlled study of topical capsaicin 0.025%) Zostrix demonstrated that it significantly relieved pain caused by osteoarthritis. Patients with osteoarthritis of one or both knee joints were randomized into a double-blind, placebo controlled multicenter study. Compared to the group that received the placebo, the capsaicin-treated groups experienced a significant reduction in pain after one week increasing to a 50% reduction by week 4. No systemic side effects or drug interaction were reported. Adverse effects, which included burning, stinging and erythema, were localized to the site of application and diminished with repeated use. (Altman RD et al, Semin Arthritis Rhean 1994, 23:25-33).
Most of us with arthritis would try anything to relieve the pain. We take medications, concoct home remedies and therapies-all for the hope of relief. What if we told you all you really had to do was follow directions? The fact is, there is something that works. A topical analgesic proven to work-naturally.
Post Herpetic Neuralgia
In a clinical study (double-blind, placebo-controlled study of topical capsaicin 0.075% in 143 patients) Zostrix HP demonstrated significant pain improvement, 50% of patients at week 2 and 64% at week 6.
86% of these patients who had less pain at the end of 6 weeks in the long term study either maintained or experienced further improvement. No systemic side effects or interactions attributable to Zostrix HP were reported (Watson CPN et al Clin Ther 1993, 15:510-526).
Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
In a clinical study (double-blind, placebo-controlled study of topical capsaicin 0.075% in 277 patients) Zostrix HP significantly improved pain, improved working, sleeping and recreational activities (Diabetes Study Group, Diabetes Care 1992, 15: 159-165).
Zostrix and Zostrix HP use
It is important to note that topical capsaicin must be applied three to four times daily for maximum benefit. Relief may be experienced within a few days but it often takes two or more weeks before you feel maximal relief. As with all medical treatments, consumers should expect that a particular analgesic may reduce their pain, but rarely will any treatment, topical or otherwise, alleviate all pain associated with arthritis, post-herpetic neuralgia or diabetic peripheral neuropathy. The goal of Zostrix or Zostrix HP therapy is to help manage the daily pain experienced by sufferers.
How does Zostrix and Zostrix HP stop the pain?
Zostrix works with your body's chemistry to lower your level of Substance P, the body's "pain messenger". When Substance P is reduced, so is the pain. By using Zostrix 3 to 4 times a day, Capsaicin builds up, Substance P fades, and so does your pain.
Following Zostrix’s and Zostrix HP’s directions is the key to your success
Simply apply it over the painful area 3 to 4 times a day. You might experience a burning sensation. Perhaps you'll see redness on your skin. Don't worry. That's the active ingredient, Capsaicin, working. The sensation should fade within a few days. Remember, don't expect results in a day or two. Zostrix or Zostrix HP needs time to build up Capsaicin and reduce Substance P in your system. In a week or two, you'll feel relief. And you'll feel it as long as you use Zostrix or Zostrix HP on a daily basis.
Key Points when using Zostrix or Zostrix HP
Be a patient patient
Because Zostrix/Zostrix HP works so differently from other painkillers its effect builds up gradually over a period of weeks. Do not be disappointed if you do not feel immediate pain relief. Pain relief is gradual and may take up to 4-6 weeks to take full effect.
How to use Zostrix and Zostrix HP
Apply only a ‘fingertip’ amount to the affected area by gently massaging it with your fingers. You do not need to cover the whole painful area as the cream will act on nerves in the wide area. Don’t apply more than a single blob – it won’t work any better and just wastes the cream.
Always wash your hands after use unless you are using the cream on your hands. The cream can irritate your eyes if you accidentally touch or rub them with fingers that still have cream on them.
How often should you apply Zostrix and Zostrix HP?
Little and often is the rule – apply the cream 4 times a day.
Does Zostrix and Zostrix HP cause any side effects?
You may feel a brief burning sensation some time after you first apply the cream. This effect is normal, and tends to disappear with time. It is more common when the cream is applied less than 3-4 times a day, so it is important to apply the cream regularly, both to improve results and minimise this effect, if it happens.
If you experience any other side effects or are worried about your treatment consult your pharmacist or doctor.
Important Don’ts
