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Capsaicin Patch (QUTENZA®)

Pain Treatment Procedure

Capsaicin Patch (QUTENZA®)

Capsaicin, the “spicy sting” from chili peppers, has long been used topically to treat pain associated with arthritis, backaches, sprains, strains, and bruises.[1] Pain-relief products containing low concentrations of capsaicin have been available over-the-counter (OTC) as lotions, creams, or patches. Higher concentrations of capsaicin have been approved for treating nerve pain and are available as a prescription patch under the brand name QUTENZA®.[2] These 8% capsaicin patches can offer up to 12 weeks of relief from neuropathic symptoms.[3]

How High-Concentration Capsaicin Patches Work

Capsaicin targets the pain-detecting sensors on nerve endings that transmit pain signals.[4] When applied directly to the painful area, the high concentration of capsaicin in QUTENZA® activates these sensors initially, resulting in a brief period of heightened sensitivity. With continued exposure, these nerve fibers become less responsive or desensitized—a process termed “defunctionalization.” This result? The nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals has been significantly decreased, offering relief to the patient.[3]

These patches are for external use only and will be carefully applied by your specialist to the area identified as hypersensitive.[1] Treatment is typically administered every 3 months, with the patch adhered to the skin for approximately 30 to 60 minutes before removal.[5]

Conditions Treated with Transdermal Capsaicin Patches

While OTC capsaicin patches are sold for at-home use to treat pain from sprains, strains, and sore muscles or joints, QUTENZA® patches are prescribed mainly for peripheral neuropathic pain in adults.[3] This topical pain relief system is used to relieve the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy in the feet and postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain following shingles).[6]

Benefits of QUTENZA® Topical Capsaicin Patches

Intra-articular hip injections are a therapeutic and diagnostic tool for chronic hip pain.

Here are some benefits associated with prescription-strength capsaicin patches:

  • Long-Lasting Pain Relief: A single 60-minute application can provide significant pain relief for up to 12 weeks. [5]
  • Non-Systemic Treatment: Since capsaicin works directly on the nerves in the skin, it doesn’t get absorbed into the bloodstream, reducing the risk of systemic side effects like drowsiness or dizziness. [7]
  • Targeted Treatment: The patch works only on the area where it’s applied, reducing the risk of widespread side effects.[8]
  • Fewer Drug Interactions: Since it’s not taken orally, Qutenza® won’t interfere with other medications you might be taking.[6]
  • Avoids Opioids and Their Risks: Capsaicin patches provide a non-opioid pain relief option, helping patients prevent dependence and side effects associated with narcotic medications.[8]
  • Quick and Convenient: The patch is applied by your healthcare provider, and no daily medication routine is required. [1]
  • Well-Tolerated with Minimal Side Effects: Temporary redness or burning at the application site is common but usually resolves within hours or days.[1]

Consult With a Capsaicin Patch Specialist

Is persistent nerve pain controlling your life? If your neuropathic pain is caused by shingles or diabetes, high-concentration capsaicin patches offer a minimally invasive option for relief. Ask your pain management specialist about the QUTENZA® topical pain system to determine if the new capsaicin patch is ideal for you.

QUTENZA® transdermal pain patches may be combined with complementary and alternative treatments like physical therapy, acupuncture, nerve medications, and mind-body techniques (like meditation). Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, monitoring your glucose levels, and avoiding alcohol or tobacco products can help reduce inflammation, improve nerve function, and enhance the effectiveness of your pain management plan.

If you’ve been dealing with persistent nerve pain, QUTENZA® can be a game-changer—especially when combined with other pain management methods tailored to your needs. While capsaicin patches can be highly effective, individual experiences vary. Consult your healthcare provider to determine if QUTENZA® is right for your nerve pain.

Resources:

  1. Devonshire R. Capsaicin 8% Patch Application. The Walton Centre – NHS [Internet]. Updated July 01, 2024. Accessed March 30, 2025. Available from: https://www.thewaltoncentre.nhs.uk/patient-leaflets/capsaicin-8-patch-application/485541
  2. Repetitive high-concentration capsaicin patch applications for nerve pain in a real-world setting. Wiley [Internet]. Published 2020. Accessed March 30, 2025. Available from: https://newsroom.wiley.com/press-releases/press-release-details/2024/Repetitive-high-concentration-capsaicin-patch-applications-for-nerve-pain-in-a-real-world-setting/default.aspx
  3. Anand P, Bley K. Topical capsaicin for pain management: therapeutic potential and mechanisms of action of the new high-concentration capsaicin 8% patch. Br J Anaesth [Internet]. 2011;107(4):490-502. doi:10.1093/bja/aer260 Accessed March 30, 2025. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3169333/
  4. Blair HA. Capsaicin 8% Dermal Patch: A Review in Peripheral Neuropathic Pain. Drugs [Internet]. 2018;78(14):1489-1500. doi:10.1007/s40265-018-0982-7 Accessed March 30, 2025. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30251173/
  5. Capsaicin Transdermal Patch: MedlinePlus Drug Information. Medline Plus [Internet]. Accessed March 30, 2025. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a620056.html
  6. Prescription Treatment For DPN and PHN | QUTENZA (Capsaicin). Averitas Pharma, Inc [Internet]. Accessed March 30, 2025. Available from:  https://www.qutenza.com/
  7. Arora V, Campbell JN, Chung MK. Fight fire with fire: Neurobiology of capsaicin-induced analgesia for chronic pain. Pharmacology & Therapeutics [Internet]. 2021;220:107743. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107743. Accessed March 30, 2025. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0163725820302746
  8. Laklouk M, Baranidharan G. Profile of the capsaicin 8% patch for the management of neuropathic pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia: safety, efficacy, and patient acceptability. Patient Prefer Adherence [Internet]. 2016;10:1913-1918. Published 2016 Sep 22. doi:10.2147/PPA.S76506. Accessed March 30, 2025. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5038568
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