Generic
Capsaicin 0.025% Topical
3 brands available in the market
At a glance
Capsaicin 0.025% Topical is a topical analgesic cream used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, post-herpetic neuralgia, diabetic neuropathy, muscle aches, sprains, back pain, and trigeminal neuralgia. It works by activating TRPV1 receptors to reduce pain signals.
Description
Capsaicin 0.025% Topical is a topical analgesic cream used for various painful conditions. It is a natural compound derived from chili peppers that acts as a TRPV1 (Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid-1) receptor agonist.
Topical application causes initial TRPV1 stimulation that may cause pain, followed by pain relief by reduction in TRPV1-expressing nociceptive nerve endings. Capsaicin is indicated for rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, psoriasis, post-herpetic neuralgia, anogenital pruritus, sprains, stiff neck, low back pain, trigeminal neuralgia, spondylitis, peripheral neuralgias, diabetic neuropathy, and post-surgical pains.
Indications
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Psoriasis
- Post-herpetic neuralgia
- Anogenital pruritus
- Sprains
- Stiff neck
- Low back pain
- Trigeminal neuralgia
- Spondylitis
- Peripheral neuralgias
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Post-surgical pains
Therapeutic class
Topical Analgesics
Pharmacological class
TRPV1 Agonist / Topical Analgesic
Pharmacology
Capsaicin acts as a TRPV1 (Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid-1) receptor agonist. Topical application causes initial TRPV1 stimulation that may cause pain, followed by pain relief by reduction in TRPV1-expressing nociceptive nerve endings. It reduces substance P levels and causes desensitization of nerve endings.
Mechanism of action
Capsaicin activates TRPV1 receptors, initially increasing pain signals, but with continued use, it reduces substance P levels in nociceptive nerve endings and causes desensitization, leading to long-term pain relief.
Dosage
Adults: Apply a thin film to affected area 3-4 times daily for 3-4 consecutive weeks and evaluate efficacy. Efficacy is decreased if used <3 times daily; not to exceed 4 applications/day.
Children: Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Note: A burning sensation may occur upon application but generally disappears with regular use. Wash hands with soap and water after applying.
Administration
For external use only. Apply a thin film of cream to the affected area. Do not apply to broken or irritated skin. Avoid contact with mucous membranes and eyes (rinse with water if contact occurs). Wash hands with soap and water after applying. Do not tightly bandage the applied area. Do not apply cream to heat-treated areas (may increase burning sensation).
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
>10%: Transient increased pain at application site (dissipates with continued use), application site erythema (63%), pain (42%).
1-10%: Nausea (5%), vomiting (3%), hypertension (2%), dryness (2%), swelling (2%), pruritus (6%), papules (6%), edema (4%), sinusitis (3%), bronchitis (2%).
<1%: Exfoliation, dizziness, cough, skin odor, headache, dysgeusia.
Precautions & warnings
- Do not apply to broken or irritated skin.
- Avoid contact with mucous membranes and eyes (do not get on contact lenses).
- Do not tightly bandage the applied area.
- Do not apply cream to heat-treated areas (may increase burning sensation).
- Females of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment.
- Lactation: Unknown whether distributed in breast milk; do not apply to nipple or areola.
- Patients taking ACE inhibitors may develop cough; inform your doctor if severe cough occurs.
Contraindications
- Broken or irritated skin
- Known hypersensitivity to capsaicin
Drug interactions
- ACE inhibitors: Capsaicin, including topical use, may cause or exacerbate coughing associated with ACE inhibitor treatment and vice versa. If a severe cough develops, one or both drugs may need to be discontinued.
Food interactions
No food-related restrictions (topical application).
Use in pregnancy
Generally considered safe during pregnancy (Category B). Animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects on the developing baby; limited human studies available.
Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Adequate information on use during lactation is not available; unknown whether distributed in breast milk. Do not apply to nipple or areola.
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients have not been established.
Geriatric use
No specific dose adjustment required for elderly, but caution advised.
Renal / hepatic impairment
No special precautions required for patients with liver or kidney impairment (minimal systemic absorption with topical application).
Overdose effects
Overuse may cause severe skin irritation, redness, or burning sensation. Consult your doctor if symptoms occur.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Capsaicin 0.025%