Qutenza (Capsaicin Patch) is a topical patch containing 8% capsaicin, classified as a TRPV1 channel agonist. In July 2020, this medication was approved by the U.S. FDA for the treatment of foot neuralgia caused by diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). It is also currently the only high-concentration capsaicin prescription patch approved for the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).
Purchase Channels for Qutenza (Capsaicin Patch)
Overseas Purchase
Patients may choose to consult and purchase the capsaicin patch at hospital pharmacies or legitimate drugstores in countries or regions where the patch has been launched.
Since drug prices may be affected by factors such as regional differences and exchange rate fluctuations, patients need to make a budget and plan in advance before purchasing.
Purchase through Medical Service Institutions
Patients can consult domestic overseas medical service institutions that cooperate with international pharmacies or pharmaceutical companies.
These institutions can usually provide legal import channels and offer professional consultation and guidance.
Precautions for Qutenza (Capsaicin Patch)
Requirements for Professional Medical Operation
The operation must be performed in a well-ventilated treatment area.
Operators must wear nitrile gloves (latex gloves are not allowed); the use of face masks and goggles is recommended.
The patch can only be applied to dry, intact skin; it is prohibited to use it on damaged skin.
Key Points for Pre-Treatment Assessment
Before each treatment, DPN patients must have their feet carefully examined to detect skin lesions related to underlying neuropathy or vascular insufficiency.
Identify and mark painful areas, including regions with allodynia (pain from non-painful stimuli) and hyperalgesia (increased pain from painful stimuli).
A local anesthetic may be optionally applied to the treatment area in advance to reduce discomfort.
Safety Risk Warnings
Risk of Accidental Exposure: Capsaicin may cause severe irritation to the eyes, mucous membranes, respiratory tract, and skin.
Application-Associated Pain: Even with the use of anesthetics, patients may still experience significant pain and a burning sensation during application and after treatment.
Increased Blood Pressure: Transient increases in blood pressure have been observed during treatment in clinical studies, requiring close monitoring.
Severe Application Site Burns: Cases of full-thickness (third-degree) and deep partial-thickness (second-degree) burns have been reported.
Methods to Distinguish Authenticity of Qutenza (Capsaicin Patch)
Verification of Packaging and Specifications
Size Specification: Each patch measures 14cm × 20cm (280cm²).
Appearance Feature: The outer surface of the backing layer is printed with the marking "capsaicin 8%".
Packaging Integrity: The patch is sealed in an aluminum foil bag; check whether the packaging is intact before use.
Verification of Product Composition
Active Ingredient: Contains 8% capsaicin, with a total content of 179mg per patch.
Supporting Components: A cleaning gel (packaged in a 50g tube) should be included as part of the product.
