Zostrix HP cream is used to relieve the pain arising from nerves near to the surface of the skin. This pain often follows Herpes Zoster (shingles) after the sores have healed. Zostrix HP cream is also used to relieve the pain suffered by diabetic patients with peripheral polyneuropathy (damage to the nerves to the limbs).

Zostrix HP cream contains capsaicin (0.075%) as active ingredient, a naturally occurring substance found in plants of the Solanaceae family. Zostrix HP cream has a topical analgesic effect. It is thought that it works by reducing levels of a chemical (substance P), which is involved in transmitting pain impulses to the brain.

It is important to use medicines as directed.

Lightly massage a small quantity into the skin around the affected area 3-4 times a day. These applications should be evenly spaced throughout the waking hours and not more often than every 4 hours. The cream should be gently rubbed in, there should be no residue left on the surface. You may notice a tingling or burning sensation after the cream has been applied, which is quite normal particularly in the early stages of treatment. This is a sign that the cream is working and over the first few days or weeks this effect will gradually reduce. This burning can be worse if the medicine is applied less than the recommended 3-4 times daily.

After applying Zostrix HP cream wash the residue off your fingers.

Zostrix HP Cream contains Capsaicin USP 0.075% w/w.

Zostrix HP Cream also contains purified water, sorbitol solution, isopropyl myristate, cetyl alcohol, white soft paraffin, glyceryl stearate, PEG-100 stearate and benzyl alcohol. Benzyl alcohol is used as a preservative.

Zostrix HP Cream is for external use only and should not come into contact with the eyes or broken or damaged skin. If it does, wash it off with plenty of soap and water.

Do not take a hot bath or shower just before or after applying the cream, as it can make the burning effect worse. You should begin to get pain relief within the first two weeks of treatment, but the maximum effect may take a month to build up as Zostrix HP cream works gradually.

If your condition worsens, seek medical advice. If your condition clears up and then recurs within a few days, stop using Zostrix HP cream and consult your doctor. Not suitable for use in children under 2 years of age. f you are pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, make sure you advise your physician before you use this cream.