Qutenza (capsaicin)

Qutenza is a high-concentration (8%) topical patch of capsaicin, a selective agonist of the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channel. Developed to treat peripheral neuropathic pain, it works by delivering a high dose of capsaicin directly to the skin, which initially overstimulates and subsequently desensitizes or defunctionalizes TRPV1-expressing nociceptive nerve fibers. This process leads to a long-lasting reduction in pain sensitivity in the treated area. It is primarily indicated for postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) of the feet. Unlike low-concentration over-the-counter capsaicin creams, Qutenza is a physician-administered treatment that provides relief for up to three months following a single application.

Brand names

Qutenza

Other names

capsaicin 8% patchcapsaicin topical system