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Lifestyle and home remedies
By Mayo Clinic staffAfter talking with your doctor, you may find the following over-the-counter medications ease the pain of postherpetic neuralgia:
- Capsaicin. This cream, made from the seeds of hot chili peppers, may relieve pain from postherpetic neuralgia. Capsaicin (Capzasin-P, Zostrix) can cause a burning sensation and irritate your skin, but these side effects usually disappear over time. Capsaicin cream can be very irritating if rubbed on unaffected parts of your body, such as in your eyes. Follow the application instructions carefully, including wearing gloves for application and washing your hands thoroughly after applying.
- Topical analgesics and anesthetics. Aspirin mixed into an absorbing cream or nonprescription-strength lidocaine cream may reduce skin hypersensitivity. Don't apply cream containing lidocaine to your face. Your doctor may also recommend using a cream containing other medications.
