Capsaicin (Zostrix and Zostrix HP): Supply issue

Supply issue Active

There is a supply issue affecting both Zostrix and Zostrix HP capsaicin (pharmacodes 472786 and 2022710).

23 July 2024 update

Zostrix and Zostrix HP are being replaced by a new brand, Zo-Rub. We listed the product for 1 August 2024. The supplier will supply Rugby brand product until it's run out, then they will start supplying Zo-Rub. 

Affected product

Both Zostrix (472786) and Zostrix HP (2022710) cream have been replaced. 

Resupply date

Zostrix and Zostrix HP are being replaced by a new brand, Zo-Rub Osteo and Zo-Rub HP. We expect Zo-Rub to become available during August 2024. 

Alternative products

Zo-Rub: new brand from August 2024

Zo-Rub is not Medsafe approved and will need to be prescribed and dispensed in line with section 29 of the Medicines Act.  

Chemical: Capsaicin

  • Presentation: Crm 0.025% 
  • Brand: Zo-Rub Osteo 
  • Pharmacode: 2682885
  • Subsidy: $9.75
  • Measure / Qty: per 45 g OP
  • Presentation: Crm 0.075%
  • Brand: Zo-Rub HP 
  • Pharmacode: 2682893
  • Subsidy: $11.95
  • Measure / Qty: per 45 g OP

Rugby brand was supplied since 2022

The supplier has secured a supply of an alternate brand, Rugby Capsaicin Topical Cream (both strengths have the same name). These alternates are listed in the Pharmaceutical Schedule.

Schedule listings for capsaicin(external link) 

Capsaicin cream 0.025% 

  • Replacing Zostrix = Rugby Capsaicin Topical Cream - Pharmacode 2578409 

Capsaicin cream 0.075% 

  • Replacing Zostrix HP = Rugby Capsaicin Topical Cream - Pharmacode 2582252

The alternate products are not Medsafe approved and as such will need to prescribed and dispensed in line with section 29 of the Medicines Act.

Prescribing and supplying a medicine under section 29

Section 29 of the Medicines Act allows for medicines that are not Medsafe approved to be prescribed and supplied to people. The medicine must be prescribed by someone registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand – e.g., doctors. 

We know supplying a medicine under section 29 is not ideal. This is the only alternative available to ensure people can continue to access treatment. 

We apologise for any inconvenience this causes. 

Prescriber and pharmacist requirements for section 29 medicines – Medsafe website(external link)

What patients need to know about section 29 medicines – Health Navigator website(external link)

Who to contact

If you have questions about the funding for this product, email enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz

Please include as much information as you can about the product (presentation, brand, pharmacode) and who your wholesaler is.

Sign up to our email list for regular emails about supply issues and more(external link)