Rugby High Potency Capsaicin 0.075% Cream - Pain Relief Cream for Arthritis - 2 Oz (57g)

I've noticed that recently diclofenac topical gel has taken over almost all the shelf space that used to be occupied by capsaicin compounds like this on drugstore shelves.Diclofenac topical is a good product. It's a local anti-inflammatory, which is safer than oral NSAIDS, and can help a lot. However capsaicin, such as this product, works in a different way: it's a true painkiller that blocks nerve impulses. And there's no reason not to use them both, layering them on, to get even better relief than either one alone.Capsaicin takes a couple weeks to kick in well. At that point, it will cut pain by about 50%. If that's not enough, try adding diclofenac and/or or take some oral painkiller (I use tylenol).The problem with capsaicin topical is that it can cause a lot of pain if you don't wait long enough before bathing or working up a sweat. Your skin eventually gets used to it so that doesn't happen, but it's a good idea to start very cautiously with tiny amounts and then gradually increase.I've used several brands of capsaicin. This inexpensive brand is as good as any. I use it just on the areas of my knees that hurt.Glad that we finally have two types of topicals that are both very helpful for pain!Good luck with your pain!

Like others have noted, use it sparingly, as it can get hot, and will even slightly burn skin in sensitive areas. But all good capsaicin does that. I couldn't handle the original Capzasin .1%, as it got hotter & hotter and doesn't easily come off, and I used it at work at times, where I couldn't take it off for hours: It burned my skin too often. However, the .025% is just too weak. I often put on some generic Ben Gay first or after it, and the combo not only stays plenty hot, but has the added advantage of the salicyate anti-inflammatory in the Ben Gay-type product. However, Ben Gay smells pretty strong. I also at times put on DMSO first to open the pores more as a carrier agent.

I originally posted a bad review of this product, giving it 1 star, but have since decided to amend my review. I decided to change my review because the product was delivered during a very cold day and sat on my porch for a couple hours; I’m not 100% positive but believe the cold may have impacted the quality. The first night I applied a decent amount with no noticeable effects, as I stated in the first review. After a day or so of being in the warm house, I applied it and got a good warm sensation; although, not the same as other cream I have with less than half the capsaicin, the stuff that gives the burn. Either way Id say the stuff works.

The burning pain I felt from this cream was horrible. It literally felt like my hands were on fire. Kept washing and soaking my hands and nothing helped. Hours later I rubbed my eye and my face and eye were burning. DO NOT BUY!

I use gloves to put it on: it works almost instantly! Very good pain relief, very impressive.My only problem with it is the intensity of the smell, and the fact that even though I use latex gloves the fumes stick to my fingers and Lord help me if I rub my eyes!Handwashing required in copious amounts, but it does work great at easing pain.Great value for cost!

I usually get Capzasin HP but figured I'd give this a try as it was cheaper for more and easier to get ahold of. Although the burn is not quite as intense, it is still going well and strong 8+ hours into my day. I prefer stronger but I always have a tough time getting a regular supply of the other, so I can't complain. It is still some pretty spicy stuff, so do be careful if you never used it before. If you have chronic pain especially from, arthritis, fibromyalgia, or a back injury, I recommend this all the way. For me the relief was immediate. The warm burning is so much preferable to dull aching pain. I have spent so much on stupid creams and ointments for pain, so far capsaicin is the onlything that works. It is far superior to nsaids. I will definitely get Rugby again as it is inexpensive, comes in a bigger bottle, and is readily available.

I did wash my hands after use but I still ended up in great pain when I put my contacts in. It may relieve arthritis pain but not without causing other pain. Use with great care!

Always does the job, used for almost 8 years now. Fair price compared to OTC brands.