Security Clearance and Fingerprinting Guidelines for Illinois Licensure Applicants
April 1, 2026
Brand Name :
Salonpas Gel Patch, Qutenza
Synonyms :
capsaicin transdermal
Class :
Analgesics, Topical
Dosage Forms & Strengths
Transdermal patch (Salonpas Gel Patch)
0.025%
0.075%
Transdermal patch (Qutenza)
8%
Safety and efficacy not determined
Refer to adult dosing
Actions and Spectrum
capsaicin transdermal acts by de-sensitizing C-fibres, sensory nerve endings that oversee carrying pain signals to the brain. An initial scorching or stinging feeling is experienced. The applied region experiences less discomfort as a result.
capsaicin transdermal has anti-inflammatory qualities so it can prevent the synthesis of inflammatory mediators including leukotrienes and prostaglandins, which will lessen inflammation in the afflicted area.
The various conditions or symptoms that capsaicin as a transdermal medicine may be able to treat is referred to as its therapeutic spectrum. capsaicin transdermal has demonstrated efficacy in reducing pain brought on by neuropathic disorders such trigeminal neuralgia, postherpetic neuralgia, and diabetic neuropathy.
Frequency defined
1-10%
Qutenza (PHN)
Nausea (5%)
Bronchitis (2%)
Application site swelling (2%)
Sinusitis (3%)
Hypertension (2%)
Skin dryness at application site (2%)
Pruritus at application site (6%)
Nasopharyngitis (4%)
Pruritus (2%)
Application site edema (4%)
Vomiting (3%)
Papules at application site (6%)
Qutenza transdermal patch (DPN)
Upper respiratory tract infection (4%)
Headache (3%)
Erythema at application site (2%)
Hypertension (2%)
Excoriation (2%)
Cough (2%)
Pain at application site (10%)
>10%
Qutenza transdermal patch (DPN)
Pain in extremity (11%)
Burning sensation at application site (14%)
Qutenza (PHN)
Application site erythema (42%)
Transient increased pain at application site (63%)
<1%
Qutenza (DPN)
Blister
Dysesthesia
Dizziness
Qutenza (PHN)
Tachycardia
Application site reactions
Palpitations
Eye pruritus
Post marketing reports
Sensory function reduction
Second-degree burn and scarring and accidental exposure
Black Box Warning
There is no black box warning for capsaicin as a transdermal drug.
Contraindication/Caution:
Contraindication:
Caution:
Pregnancy warnings:
Pregnancy category: N/A
Lactation: Excretion into human milk is unknown
Pregnancy Categories:
Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester.
Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women.
Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.
Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.
Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.
Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category.
Pharmacology
Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) is a receptor that capsaicin transdermal primarily binds to and activates. On sensory nerve endings, such as C-fibers, which are involved in pain perception, there is a receptor called TRPV1.
capsaicin transdermal activates TRPV1, which causes calcium ions to flood the nerve cells, depolarizing them and sending pain signals to the central nervous system.
Pharmacodynamics
In various research, capsaicin transdermal has proven to have anti-inflammatory properties. Prostaglandins, cytokines, and leukotrienes, among other inflammatory mediators, can be produced less and released less as a result.
Substance P, which is held in sensory nerve endings and released upon stimulation, is depleted and its release is reduced as a result of capsaicin administration.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
As a transdermal medication, capsaicin is often applied topically. It can penetrate the skin and absorb into the deeper tissues. The concentration of capsaicin, the formulation, the strength of the skin barrier, and the application site are only a few examples of the variables that affect the rate and degree of absorption.
Distribution
The tissues close to the application site contain capsaicin transdermal in various concentrations. It predominantly targets the nearby sensory nerve ends to exert its localised effects.
Metabolism
capsaicin transdermal undergoes metabolism mainly in the liver. Enzymatic hydroxylation is the primary metabolic process through which capsaicin is transformed into a variety of metabolites.
Elimination and excretion
The renal pathway accounts for most capsaicin transdermal and its metabolite elimination. The byproducts of metabolism are eliminated in the urine.
Administration
Before administering the capsaicin transdermal, make sure the application area is tidy and dry. Avoid applying any creams, oils, or lotions to the region prior because these might prevent absorption.
Apply the patch to the targeted area of skin after removing it from the packaging if you’re using a capsaicin transdermal patch. Use the appropriate dosage of capsaicin transdermal cream or gel on your fingertips. Apply the cream or gel to the affected region evenly and gently, rubbing it in until it is absorbed.
Patient information leaflet
Generic Name: capsaicin transdermal
Why do we use capsaicin transdermal?
capsaicin transdermal is used as a topical analgesic to provide relief from localized pain.
Particularly in the hands, knees, and other damaged joints, capsaicin can ease the joint discomfort associated with osteoarthritis.
Peripheral neuropathy, a disorder marked by nerve damage, can be treated with capsaicin to reduce discomfort.
Muscle discomfort, strains, and sprains can be temporarily relieved by a transdermal capsaicin medication.