Capsaicin .25 mg/g Cream — NDC 0536-2525-25 (Billing 00536-2525-25)
This is a package of Capsaicin .25 mg/g Cream from Rugby Laboratories, marketed since Mar 2012 and currently FDA-listed; retail pharmacies pay about $0.0821 per g (NADAC). It is this product's only package size.
NDC database record
One package, one record: these facts belong to NDC 0536-2525-25 alone.
- Record
- FDA NDC Directory package listing · Human OTC drug
- Code segments
- 0536 labeler · 2525 product · 25 package
- Package marketed since
- Mar 1, 2012
- Sample package
- No — commercial package
- Listing certified through
- Dec 31, 2026
- Barcode (UPC-A, from the NDC)
- 3 0536252525 4
- Medicaid fills, this package
- 24,722 prescriptions in the last four reported quarters
- FDA record last changed
- Jul 24, 2026
Identity & classification
Regulatory identifiers FDA, NLM and CMS codes for this package
Drug-database identifiers Medi-Span GPI and First Databank GCN / HICL / AHFS classification
- GSN (GCN sequence number): 006017
- GCN: 33560
- GPI-14 (Medi-Span): 90850025003710
- HICL (First Databank): 002577
- AHFS class code: 84:92.00.00
- RxCUI (RxNorm): 198555
Where does this data come from?
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 8, 2026
- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 6, 2026
- RxNorm (NLM RxNav) · catalog refreshed Oct 1, 2026
- Medi-Span GPI (licensed)
- First Databank (licensed) · refreshed Oct 8, 2026
RxNorm drug class
This medicine belongs to the Capsaicin and similar agents class.
Where does this data come from?
- RxClass (NLM) · catalog refreshed Oct 1, 2026
Clinical
Topical capsaicin is used to relieve minor pain in muscles and joints caused by arthritis, backaches, muscle strains, bruises, cramps, and sprains. Capsaicin is a substance that is found in chili peppers. It works by affecting nerve cells in the skin that are associated with pain, which results in decreased activity of these nerve cells and a reduced sense of pain.
Read the full MedlinePlus article ↗- Yes, completely normal — and it actually means the medicine is working. Capsaicin activates the same pain-sensing receptors in your skin that respond to heat and spicy food. That b...
- Why does capsaicin burn when I put it on? Is that normal?
- For most OTC creams and ointments, you can apply up to 3 to 4 times a day. For OTC patches, apply to clean, dry skin and remove after no more than 8 hours — again, up to 3 to 4 tim...
- How often should I apply capsaicin cream or use the patch?
Patient education
Supplement & herbal interactions
Some supplements/herbs that may interact with Capsaicin (prescription drug) — tap one for details:
Where does this data come from?
- MedlinePlus (NLM) · refreshed Oct 1, 2026
- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 6, 2026
Ask a licensed pharmacist directly — free, answered by our team.
Pricing
A drug doesn't have one price. Each row is a different public payment system, and none is what you'd pay at the counter — that depends on your insurance. The ⓘ on each row explains what it measures.
| Price system | Per g | Per package |
|---|---|---|
| Retail pharmacies payNADAC · weekly | $0.082 | $4.93 / 60 g |
| Medicaid paysCMS SDUD · 12 mo | $0.2350 | $14.10 / 60 g |
| Medicare drug plans payPart D · quarterly | No Part D plan price is available for this NDC in our data. | |
Where does this data come from?
- CMS NADAC weekly file · file of Sep 30, 2026
- CMS ASP pricing files · refreshed Sep 20, 2026
- CMS Medicaid State Drug Utilization Data · through Q1 2026
- CMS Part D plan pricing files · refreshed Sep 24, 2026
- VA National Acquisition Center price file
Packaging — all sizes for this product
| Package NDC | Description | Marketing start | Marketing end | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00536-2525-25 You're viewing this Main listing | 1 TUBE in 1 CARTON / 60 g in 1 TUBE | 2012-03-01 | — | Active |
Therapeutic equivalents
| Product | Labeler | Pack | NADAC/unit | TE | Status | Price vs. this |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capsaicin .25 mg/gthis 00536-2525-25 | Rugby | 1 tube | $0.082 | — | Availability likely | — |
| Capsaicin External Analgesic .25 mg/g 50268-0195-60 | AvPAK | 1 tube | $0.082 | — | Availability likely | — |
| Sheffield Arthritis and Muscle Pain Relief .25 mg/g 11527-0089-54 | Sheffield | 1 tube | — | — | FDA listed | — |
| Capsaicin .025 g/100g 50488-1025-01 | Alexso, | 1 tube | — | — | FDA listed | — |
| CareALL Arthritis and Muscle .025 g/g 51824-0094-15 | New | 42.5 g | — | — | FDA listed | — |
| Capsaicin 0.025% Cream .025 mg/g 59088-0220-08 | Puretek | 120 g | — | — | FDA listed | — |
| DermacinRx Penetral Cream .25 mg/mL 59088-0310-08 | PureTek | 118 ml | — | — | FDA listed | — |
| Penetrex(r) Arthritis Pain Relief .025 g/100g 62742-4216-02 | Allure | 1 tube | — | — | FDA listed | — |
| Rugby Capsaicin External Analgesic .25 mg/g 63187-0660-60 | Proficient | 1 tube | — | — | FDA listed | — |
| Capsaicin External Analgesic .25 mg/g 68071-3430-02 | NuCare | 1 tube | — | — | FDA listed | — |
| Capsaicin .025 g/100g 69420-6025-01 | SA3, | 120 g | — | — | FDA listed | — |
| Melt Pain Away .025 g/100g 72683-0003-01 | Proximity | 200 g | — | — | FDA listed | — |
| Drs Pharmacy PAIN RELIEF MUSCLE ARITHRITIS .025 g/100g 80489-0099-01 | OL | 1 tube | — | — | FDA listed | — |
| Thera Plus Pain Relief Arthritis and Muscle .25 mg/g 80684-0138-00 | FOURSTAR | 42.5 g | — | — | FDA listed | — |
| BRONSON SOOTHE Pain Relief .25 mg/mL 83158-0387-02 | BRONSON | 59 ml | — | — | FDA listed | — |
| BIOSAVIA External Analgesic Pain Relief .25 mg/g 84680-0529-00 | BIOSAVIA | 117.5 g | — | — | FDA listed | — |
Where does this data come from?
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 8, 2026
- FDA Orange Book · refreshed Oct 3, 2026
- CMS NADAC weekly file · file of Sep 30, 2026
Availability & generic status
We did not find an FDA-approved generic match for this exact strength, form and route.
Where does this data come from?
- FDA Orange Book · refreshed Oct 3, 2026
What it looks like
Where does this data come from?
- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 6, 2026
Inactive Ingredients / Excipients
Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are components of the drug product other than the active ingredient. They may include fillers, dyes, coatings, preservatives, flavors, or other formulation ingredients.
🧪 Avoiding an ingredient? See Capsaicin inactive ingredients by manufacturer: every current product's list side by side, so you can ask your pharmacy for the version that does not list it.
💡 Tap an ingredient (hover on desktop) to see what it is and why it’s used.
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UNII 71DD5V995L
A synthetic polymer derived from acrylic acid, crosslinked to form a gel-like substance. It thickens formulations, improves texture, and helps distribute active ingredients evenly in topical products like creams and gels.
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UNII 4Q43814HXS
Cetyl acetate is a waxy compound made by combining cetyl alcohol with acetic acid. It works as a binder and thickener in medicines, helping to hold ingredients together and give the product a smooth, creamy texture.
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UNII A2I8C7HI9T
Methylparaben is a preservative derived from benzoic acid that prevents growth of bacteria, fungi, and mold in medicines. It extends the product's shelf life and maintains safety during storage.
-
UNII 0057334FAB
A synthetic compound derived from glucose that combines water-repelling and water-attracting properties. It works as an emulsifier to help blend oil and water-based ingredients, and may also function as a thickener in creams and lotions.
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UNII 6DC9Q167V3
Propylene glycol is a clear liquid derived from petroleum or vegetable sources. It acts as a solvent, humectant, and preservative in medicines, helping dissolve active ingredients and maintain product stability.
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UNII Z8IX2SC1OH
Propylparaben is a chemical preservative used to prevent bacterial and fungal growth in medicines and personal care products. It helps extend shelf life and maintain product safety during storage.
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UNII 4OH5W9UM87
A synthetic emulsifier and surfactant derived from stearic acid. It helps oils and water mix together in liquid medicines and creams, and improves how the product spreads and feels on the skin.
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UNII 4ELV7Z65AP
Stearic acid is a fatty acid derived from plant or animal sources. It acts as a binder and lubricant in tablets and capsules, helping them hold together and flow smoothly during manufacturing.
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UNII 2KR89I4H1Y
Stearyl alcohol is a waxy, fatty substance derived from natural oils or made synthetically. It acts as an emulsifier and thickener in medicines, helping mix ingredients together and give the product the right texture.
-
UNII 9O3K93S3TK
Trolamine is an alkaline compound used as a pH buffer and emulsifier in medicines. It helps neutralize acids, stabilize formulations, and enable mixing of oil and water-based ingredients.
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UNII 059QF0KO0R
Water is a liquid solvent that dissolves and mixes ingredients together in liquid medicines, syrups, and injections. It helps distribute the active drug evenly throughout the product.
11 inactive ingredients listed in the exact product block matched to this NDC.
Label-section wording can be broader than the structured product block and may mention additional formulation ingredients.
Where does this data come from?
ingredient classCode="IACT" elements from the exact product block matched by this NDC. Label-section narrative from DailyMed / the openFDA label index is shown separately when available.- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 6, 2026
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 8, 2026
Inactive ingredient FAQ
Are inactive ingredients the same for every manufacturer?
Why might an inactive ingredient be missing?
Can inactive ingredients matter?
Manufacturer & labeler
More NDCs from Rugby Laboratories labeler code 00536
- Senna 8.8 mg/5mL Solution NDC 0536-1483-59
- Rugby Mucus Relief ER guaifenesin 600 mg Tablet, Multilayer, Extended Release NDC 0536-1489-20
- Rugby Allergy Relief D fexofenadine hydrochloride, pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 60 mg; 120 mg Tablet, Film Coated, Extended Release NDC 0536-1491-07
- Sebex Antidandruff, anti-seborrheic dermatitis, anti-psoriasis Salicylic Acid, Sulfur 20 mg/1000mL; 20 mg/1000mL Shampoo NDC 0536-1962-97
- Rugby Anti-Dandruff Selenium Sulfide 10 mg/mL Shampoo NDC 0536-1995-53
- MILK OF MAGNESIA MINT magnesium hydroxide 1200 mg/15mL Liquid NDC 0536-2470-85
- Rugby Nicotine Polacrilex Gum, Original Flavor 2 mg Gum, Chewing NDC 0536-3029-06
- Rugby Nicotine Polacrilex Gum, Original Flavor 4 mg Gum, Chewing NDC 0536-3030-06
- Rugby Nicotine Polacrilex Gum, Coated Mint Flavor 2 mg Gum, Chewing NDC 0536-3112-01
- Rugby Nicotine Polacrilex Gum, Coated Mint Flavor 4 mg Gum, Chewing NDC 0536-3113-01
- Rugby Nicotine Polacrilex Gum, Coated Fruit Flavor 2 mg Gum, Chewing NDC 0536-3386-01
- Rugby Nicotine Polacrilex Gum, Coated Fruit Flavor 4 mg Gum, Chewing NDC 0536-3387-01
Where does this data come from?
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 8, 2026
- Drugs@FDA
FDA label — Drug Facts FDA SPL
🎯 Indications and Usage ▾
Uses temporarily relieves minor aches and pains of muscles and joints due to: simple backache arthritis strains sprains
⏱️ Dosage and Administration ▾
Directions Adults and children 18 years of age and older: apply a thin film of cream to affected area and gently rub in until fully absorbed unless treating hands, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after application for best results, apply 3 to 4 times daily. Children under 18 years: ask a doctor
⚠️ Warnings ▾
Warnings For external use only Read all warnings and directions before use. Test first on small area of skin. Do not use on wounds or damaged skin if you are allergic to capsicum or chili peppers When using this product you may experience a burning sensation.
The intensity of this reaction varies among individuals and may be severe. With regular use, this sensation generally disappears after several days. avoid contact with the eyes, lips, nose and mucous membranes do not tightly wrap or bandage the treated area do not apply heat to the treated area immediately before or after use Stop use and ask a doctor if condition worsens or does not improve after regular use severe burning persists or blistering occurs Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.
📦 Storage and Handling ▾
Other information store at room temperature 15° - 30°C (59° - 86°F)
🧪 Active Ingredient ▾
Active ingredient Capsaicin 0.025%
🧪 Inactive Ingredients ▾
Inactive ingredients acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, cetyl acetate, methylparaben, PPG-20 methyl glucose ether distearate, propylene glycol, propylparaben, stearate-100, stearic acid, stearyl alcohol, triethanolamine, water
🎯 Purpose ▾
Purpose External analgesic
📄 Do Not Use ▾
For external use only Read all warnings and directions before use. Test first on small area of skin. Do not use on wounds or damaged skin if you are allergic to capsicum or chili peppers
📄 When Using This Product ▾
When using this product you may experience a burning sensation. The intensity of this reaction varies among individuals and may be severe. With regular use, this sensation generally disappears after several days. avoid contact with the eyes, lips, nose and mucous membranes do not tightly wrap or bandage the treated area do not apply heat to the treated area immediately before or after use
📄 Stop Use and Ask a Doctor If ▾
Stop use and ask a doctor if condition worsens or does not improve after regular use severe burning persists or blistering occurs
📄 Keep Out of Reach of Children ▾
Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.
📄 Questions or Comments ▾
Questions or comments? Call 1-800-645-2158 9 am - 5 pm ET, Monday - Friday
📄 Package Label / Principal Display Panel ▾
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 60 g Tube Carton NDC 0536-2525-25 Rugby ® SATISFACTION GUARANTEED Rugby OR YOUR MONEY BACK Capsaicin Cream, 0.025% External Analgesic Penetrating Pain Relief Net Wt 2.1 oz (60 g) PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 60 g Tube Carton