Posted by DJ on May 18, 1999 at 22:19:40:
Got this off the mayo site too...
"Capsaicin (Zostrix), a topical cream made from an
extract of red peppers, can help relieve skin sensitivity
resulting from shingles. It's also used to treat pain
from arthritis, cluster headaches, diabetic neuropathy
and pain after mastectomy. You may have an initial
burning sensation where the cream is applied.
Benefits are temporary so you'll need repeated
application. Capsaicin probably relieves pain by
interrupting transmission of pain messages from
nociceptors. "