Zostrix HP Indication

Zostrix HP is used to relieve a pain known as neuralgia (shingles). Zostrix HP is also used to help relieve pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis or muscle sprains. Zostrix HP will not cure any of these conditions. Neuralgia is a condition that comes from the nerves on the surface of the skin. This pain may occur after an infection with herpes zoster (shingles or postherpetic neuralgia). Zostrix HP is available without a prescription.

Storage

Store Zostrix HP at room temperature in a dry, cool location. Keep this medication away from children and pets. Keep away from fire as it is a flammable substance when in liquid form.

Precautions

Here are some precautions you should take:

• Zostrix HP can cause burning sensations that are usually mild and lessen over time with continued use.
• If the burning sensation continues or causes significant discomfort, wash the area with soap and cold water.
• Stop using the medicine and call your doctor if you experience severe burning or redness.
• Do not use Zostrix HP without talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant during treatment.
• Do not use Zostrix HP without telling your doctor if you are breast feeding a baby.

Warnings

• Avoid getting Zostrix HP in your mouth or eyes or near your nose.
• Do not apply Zostrix HP to open wounds or irritated skin and avoid getting the medicine on contact lenses, dentures, or other items that you use on your body.
• It can take up to 2 weeks of using this medicine before your condition improves.
• Call your doctor if your pain does not improve after 7 days, or if your symptoms become worse.
• Avoid inhaling the odor or dried residue of Zostrix HP. Inhaling this can cause coughing, sneezing, or watery eyes, and can irritate your throat or lungs.
• Do not touch your eyes, nose, mouth, genitals, or rectum until the medication has been washed off your hands.
• Do not handle food while the medication is still on your hands.
• Stay away from sunlight, sunlamps, tanning beds, or a hot tub while using Zostrix HP. Heat can cause the burning sensation of Zostrix HP to become worse.
• Do not use other medicated skin products such as muscle pain creams on areas where you have applied Zostrix HP.

Patient Family Introduction

• Use this medication as directed on the label or as instructed by your pharmacist or doctor.
• Zostrix HP can cause a burning feeling where it is applied. This sensation is usually mild and should lessen over time.
• Do not apply Zostrix HP to open wounds or to skin that is sunburned, wind burned, dry, chapped, or irritated.
• To prevent the medication from getting on your fingers when applying it, use rubber gloves or a cotton ball to apply it to affected areas.
• Apply Zostrix HP on clean dry skin.
• When using Zostrix HP cream, apply a thin layer to the affected area and rub it in until it is completely absorbed.
• To use the Zostrix HP liquid or stick, uncap the applicator and press it firmly on your skin to apply.
• Zostrix HP can be used up to 4 times daily.
• If you are using a Zostrix HP patch, remove the liner and apply the patch to your skin over the affected areas. Make sure the edges are pressed firmly in place.
• Remove the patch and apply a new patch 1 or 2 times daily as needed.
• Always wash your hands thoroughly after using this medication.

Contradiction

• Do not use this medication if you are allergic to chili peppers, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to Capsaicin.
• Do not use this medication on anyone younger than 18 years old without the advice of a healthcare professional.

Severe Side Effects of Zostrix HP

Seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of these signs of allergic reaction to Zostrix HP:

• Hives
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, or throat.

Stop using Zostrix HP and call your doctor if you have serious side effects.

Common Side Effects of Zostrix HP

Less serious side effect of Zostrix HP includes:

• Mild burning sensations that can last for several hours or days, especially after first use.

Other Drugs

Voltaren gel | Advil 12 hour | Surgam SR (Tiaprofenic acid)

References

2002. ZOSTRIX HP Cream – Uses, Side Effects, and More. WebMD.
Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6042/zostrix-hp-topical/details