Indications
Capsaicin is indicatd for- Rheumatoid arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Pain due to diabetic neuropathy, Joint pain, Post-herpetic neuralgia, Post-surgical neuropathic pain, Nerve Pain, Back pain, Muscle pain, Fibromyalgia, Bursitis, Pruritis (itching)
Pharmacology
Although the precise mechanism of action of Capsaicin is not fully understood, current evidence suggests that Capsaicin exerts an analgesic effect by depleting and preventing reaccumulation of Substance P in peripheral sensory neurons. Substance P is thought to be the principal chemomediator of pain impulses from the periphery to the central nervous system.
Dosage And Administration
18 years of age and older: Apply a thin film of Capsaicin cream to affected area 3 to 4 times daily. A burning sensation may occur upon application, but generally disappears with regular use. Application schedules of 3 to 4 times a day for 2 weeks provides optimum pain relief.
Contraindications
Capsaicin cream is contraindicated on broken or irritated skin. It is also contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to capsaicin or any of the excipients used in this product.
Side Effects
Capsaicin may cause transient burning on application. This burning is observed more frequently when the application schedules are more than 3-4 times daily. The burning can be enhanced if too much cream is used and if it is applied just before or after a bath or shower.
Pregnancy And Lactation
The safety of Capsaicin during pregnancy or lactation has not been established in either humans or animals.
Precautions And Warnings
Capsaicin cream should not be applied to broken or irritated skin. Applied area should not be tightly bandaged. Do not get on mucous membranes and into eyes or on contact lenses. If this occurs, rinse the affected area thoroughly with water. Do not apply the cream on the heat treated area as this may increase the burning sensation. In case of accidental ingestion, seek physician advice immediately.
Overdose Effects
Sufficient information on overdose of Capsaicin is not available.
Therapeutic Class
Topical Analgesics, Topical anti-inflammatory preparations
Storage Conditions
Keep at cool and dry place, away form light. Keep out of the reach of children.