Qutenza (Capsaicin Patch) is a topical patch system containing 8% capsaicin, indicated for the treatment of neuropathic pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). As a prescription medication, it must be administered by professional healthcare providers in medical institutions.

Side Effects of Qutenza (Capsaicin Patch)

Application Site Reactions

Erythema: Incidence of 63% in PHN patients and 2% in DPN patients.

Pain: Incidence of 42% in PHN patients and 10% in DPN patients.

Pruritus: Incidence of 6% in PHN patients.

Other manifestations: Papules (6%), edema (4%), swelling (2%), and dryness (2%).

Systemic Reactions

Infections and infestations: Nasopharyngitis (4%), bronchitis (2%), and sinusitis (3%).

Gastrointestinal symptoms: Nausea (5%) and vomiting (3%).

Neurological symptoms: Headache (4% in DPN patients) and dizziness (<1%).

Vascular and blood pressure abnormalities: Hypertension (2% in both PHN and DPN patients).

Severe Side Effects

Severe Burns at Application Site

Reports show full-thickness (third-degree) and deep partial-thickness (second-degree) burns may occur, with some cases requiring hospitalization and skin grafting.

Most incidents are related to off-label use, excessive dosing frequency, or prior skin trauma.

Risk of Increased Blood Pressure

Clinical studies observed transient blood pressure elevation during treatment or after patch removal (average <10 mmHg, lasting about 2 hours).

Higher risk in patients with poorly controlled hypertension or recent cardiovascular/cerebrovascular events.

Severe Irritation from Accidental Exposure

Capsaicin can cause severe inflammatory reactions if it contacts the eyes, mucous membranes, respiratory tract, or skin.

Strict adherence to protective procedures is mandatory during operation.

Precautions for Using Qutenza (Capsaicin Patch)

Professional Administration and Protection Requirements

Healthcare provider administration only: Patients are prohibited from self-administering or handling the patch.

Protective equipment: Nitrile gloves (latex gloves are forbidden) must be worn; masks and goggles are recommended.

Environmental control: Administer in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling capsaicin aerosols.

Pre-Treatment Assessment and Operational Procedures

Skin examination: Confirm the skin is dry and intact (no damage) before treatment.

Pre-anesthetic preparation: Local anesthetics may be used to reduce pain during application.

Patch removal and cleansing: Remove by rolling inward slowly, and thoroughly wash residual capsaicin with the accompanying cleansing gel.

Repeat Treatment and Efficacy Monitoring

Repeat treatment interval: Can be repeated every 3 months, or adjusted based on pain recurrence (minimum interval of 3 months).

Efficacy reassessment: Re-evaluate the treatment plan if pain shows no improvement after consecutive treatments.