Capsaicin Topical System

Capsaicin topical system is used to treat neuropathic pain from postherpetic neuralgia (PHN; the burning, stabbing pain or aches that may last for months or years after an attack of shingles) or from diabetic neuropathy (numbness or tingling due to nerve damage in people who have diabetes). Capsaicin is a substance that is found in chili peppers. Capsaicin topical system is in a class of medications called topical pain relievers. It works by affecting nerve cells in the skin that are associated with pain, which results in decreased activity of these nerve cells and a reduced sense of pain.

Capsaicin topical system comes as a patch to be applied to the skin by a healthcare provider. After applied, it will remain in place for 30 to 60 minutes before being removed and the area cleaned. You may receive the medication up to 4 times per year.

Be careful not to touch the area where capsaicin topical system has been applied. Be careful not to touch your eyes while capsaicin topical system. If you start experiencing eye irritation or trouble breathing, let your doctor or nurse know right away.

Your skin may be sensitive to heat (heating pads, electric blankets, hair dryers, heat lamps, saunas, hot tubs, baths, direct sunlight and vigorous exercise) for a few days after treatment with capsaicin topical system.

If you experience pain after having capsaicin topical system applied, your doctor may tell you to take an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen or apply cool compresses or packs. Do not use frozen cooling compresses or compacts or apply them directly to the skin (wrap a towel around it before applying) as this may cause frostbite.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Before receiving capsaicin topical system,

• tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to this medication, any part of this medication, or any other medications, foods or substances. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about the allergy and what symptoms you had.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, {and herbal products} you are taking or plan to take.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had high blood pressure, stroke or mini-stroke, heart problems, or trouble feeling or sensing touch on the skin.
• you should know that your blood pressure may increase during your treatment with capsaicin topical system. Your doctor will probably monitor your blood pressure during your treatment
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

If you miss an appointment to receive capsaicin topical system, call your doctor as soon as possible.

Capsaicin topical system may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• redness
• pain
• itching

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• loss of sensation or feeling where the medication was applied
• severe pain, blistering, or burns at application area

Capsaicin topical system may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online (https://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch) or by phone (1-800-332-1088).

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines, vitamins, minerals, and dietary supplements you are taking. Bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to the hospital. You should carry the list with you in case of emergencies.

• Qutenza^®