This cream is usually used to treat the pain associated with the shingles but may also be used for other painful conditions. It should be applied three to four times a day and may cause a burning sensation. You must wash you hands after application to avoid getting it anywhere else such as in your eyes. It can take up to 2 weeks of application before pain relief occurs. This is due to its ability to deplete Substance P levels in the tissue which is responsible for the pain signal. This depletion takes time.