Do I need a prescription for capsaicin?

Dr. Michael Roizen, MD

Internal Medicine

You don’t need a prescription for capsaicin, but do tell your doc if you decide to use it. You have a lot of application options (gels, creams, lotions, patches), so your doc can help you choose. They all work in pretty much the same way though, so we say choose based on convenience.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.