civamide

Civamide is the cis-isomer of capsaicin and is also known as zucapsaicin. It acts as a modulator of the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1), commonly referred to as the vanilloid or capsaicin receptor. Civamide excites and subsequently desensitizes C-fibers by acting as an agonist at TRPV1 on nociceptive neurons. This leads to an initial burning sensation followed by reduced sensitivity and persistent desensitization of these channels—a process that underlies its analgesic effect[1][7]. Civamide has been developed in oral, nasal, and topical formulations for conditions associated with ongoing nerve pain such as osteoarthritis of the knee[1][4][5], cluster headache[2], neuropathic pain[3], and post-herpetic neuralgia[3]. The drug was manufactured by Winston Pharmaceuticals/Winston Laboratories and marketed under brand names such as Civanex (in development in the US) and Zuacta (approved in Canada)[1][5]. Clinical studies have shown efficacy for up to one year of continuous use with good tolerability when used topically for osteoarthritis pain relief[4].

Brand names

CivanexZuacta

Other names

civamidezucapsaicin(Z)-capsaicincis-capsaicin