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Does capsaicin cream help with fibromyalgia pain?

The research on capsaicin for fibromyalgia is limited but shows some promise. One small trial with 45 people found that applying 0.025% capsaicin gel four times daily for four weeks helped reduce tenderness and improved grip strength compared to placebo.

However, it's Show Full Answer

Does capsaicin cream help with fibromyalgia pain?

The research on capsaicin for fibromyalgia is limited but shows some promise. One small trial with 45 people found that applying 0.025% capsaicin gel four times daily for four weeks helped reduce tenderness and improved grip strength compared to placebo.

However, it's worth noting that a larger study on compounded pain creams found they weren't more effective than placebo for chronic pain conditions. The study included nearly 400 participants with various types of pain and found no significant difference between active creams and placebo.

What to expect:

The most common side effect is a burning or stinging sensation where you apply it, especially during the first week. This usually gets better with continued use.

Things to consider:

- Results may vary from person to person
- Evidence is still limited for fibromyalgia specifically
- It's a topical option that won't affect your stomach like oral pain medications
- Some MyFibroTeam members have found relief with various topical treatments, while others haven't noticed much benefit

If you're interested in trying capsaicin, talk with your doctor about whether it might be worth exploring as part of your pain management approach.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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