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Capsaicin 8%
Capsaicin activates TRPV1 nociceptors on nerve fibers, causing initial stimulation followed by desensitization and depletion of substance P, resulting in reduced pain signaling.
Capsaicin activates TRPV1 nociceptors on nerve fibers, causing initial stimulation followed by desensitization and depletion of substance P, resulting in reduced pain signaling. Used for Neuropathic pain (postherpetic neuralgia, peripheral neuropathy), Localized musculoskeletal pain.
At a glance
| Generic name | Capsaicin 8% |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Qutenza®, QUTENZA®, Qutenza |
| Sponsor | Averitas Pharma, Inc. |
| Drug class | Topical analgesic; TRPV1 agonist |
| Target | TRPV1 (transient receptor potential vanilloid 1) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Pain Management |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Capsaicin is a natural alkaloid that binds to and activates the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channel on C-fiber nociceptors. Acute activation causes a burning sensation, but with sustained exposure, the nerve fibers become desensitized and substance P (a key pain neurotransmitter) becomes depleted, leading to prolonged analgesia in the treated area. The 8% topical patch formulation delivers high local concentrations to provide sustained pain relief.
Approved indications
- Neuropathic pain (postherpetic neuralgia, peripheral neuropathy)
- Localized musculoskeletal pain
Common side effects
- Application site erythema
- Application site burning/irritation
- Application site pruritus
- Transient increase in pain at application site
Key clinical trials
- Serratus Plane Block (SPB) Versus Capsaïcine Versus Botox-A for Chronic Neuropathic Pain in Post-mastectomy Syndrome (PHASE2)
- Qutenza 8% Capsaicin Topical System for the Treatment of Neuropathic Axial Lower Back Pain and Lumbosacral Radiculopathy
- Study Evaluating the Analgesic Efficacy of Capsaicin 8% Patches in Chronic Coccygodynia. (PHASE3)
- Observational Study to Evaluate the Efficacy of Sustained QUTENZA® Use in Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
- Analgesic Effectiveness of Capsaicin 8% Cutaneous Patch in Children (PHASE3)
- Comparison of Qutenza (8% Capsaicin) With a Low-dose Capsaicin for Treatment of Nerve Pain After Surgery (PHASE3)
- Topographical Distribution of Itch and Pain Receptors (NA)
- Study to Evaluate the Interest of Qutenza in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer in Remission and With Sequelae Neuropathic Pain. (PHASE2)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |