Axsain 0.075% Cream

Axsain 0.075% Cream is a prescription-only medicine used to relieve localized nerve pain. Its active ingredient is capsaicin, the substance that gives chilli peppers their heat.

While lower concentrations of capsaicin are used for arthritis, Axsain’s higher 0.075% strength is specifically indicated for more intense neuropathic (nerve) pain. It provides a targeted alternative to oral nerve-pain medications, working directly on the affected area to reduce pain signals sent to the brain.

Axsain works through a process called "substance P depletion."

• The Messenger: Substance P is a chemical in your body that acts as a messenger, sending pain signals from the skin's nerves to the brain.
• The Action: When applied to the skin, capsaicin initially stimulates the release of these pain messengers (often causing a warm sensation).
• The Result: With regular use, Axsain exhausts the supply of Substance P in the treated area. Without this messenger, the nerves can no longer effectively transmit pain signals, resulting in significant relief for chronic nerve conditions.

Axsain is primarily prescribed for two types of nerve pain:

1. Post-Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN): Persistent burning or stabbing pain that remains after a shingles rash has healed.
2. Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: Nerve damage in the hands and feet caused by diabetes, which often presents as tingling, burning, or sharp pains.

1. Apply a thin layer: Only a small amount is needed for the affected area.
2. Massage in: Rub the cream into the skin until no residue remains.
3. Frequency: Use 3 to 4 times daily as directed. You must leave at least 4 hours between applications.
4. Hand Care: Wash your hands with soap and cold water immediately after use. If you are treating your hands, leave the cream on for 30 minutes before washing.
5. Caution: Avoid contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth, as the high concentration of capsaicin will cause intense irritation.

The most common side effect is a warm, burning, or stinging sensation where the cream is applied. This is a direct sign that the capsaicin is depleting the pain chemicals in your nerves.

• Common: Redness, stinging, and heat. This usually settles after the first week of regular use.
• Respiratory: Inhaling the vapours can cause coughing, sneezing, or watery eyes.
• Serious: If you experience severe blistering or an allergic reaction, stop use immediately and contact a doctor.

Please read the following safety information carefully before using Axsain 0.075% Cream:

• Avoid Heat: Do not apply the cream immediately before or after a hot bath or shower. Heat significantly increases the absorption of capsaicin and can turn a warming sensation into intense, painful burning.
• External Use Only: Never apply Axsain to broken, cracked, infected, or irritated skin. Doing so will cause severe irritation.
• Eye and Mucosa Protection: Avoid all contact with the eyes, nose, and mouth. Even a tiny amount of residue on your fingers can cause extreme stinging. If contact occurs, rinse with large amounts of cold water.
• Hand Hygiene: Unless you are treating your hands, you must wash them with soap and cold water immediately after application. Hot water opens the pores and can lead to burning on the hands.
• Inhalation: Avoid inhaling the vapours of the cream, as this can cause coughing, sneezing, or watery eyes.
• Sun Exposure: Do not expose the treated area to direct sunlight or sunlamps, as this can increase the risk of skin irritation.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Axsain should not be used if you are pregnant or breastfeeding unless specifically advised by your doctor.