Qutenza (Capsaicin Patch) is a therapeutic medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), providing an innovative treatment option for patients with specific types of neuropathic pain. Administered topically, this medication acts directly on the painful area to exert its unique analgesic effect.
What Are the Indications for Qutenza (Capsaicin Patch)?
Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN)
Qutenza is explicitly approved for the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) in adults.
PHN is a common complication following herpes zoster virus infection, characterized by persistent neuropathic pain that significantly impairs patients’ quality of life.
Clinical trial data show that this medication demonstrates favorable efficacy in the treatment of PHN, effectively alleviating patients’ pain symptoms.
Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN)
The medication is also indicated for the treatment of neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) in adults, particularly symptoms affecting the feet.
Population Restrictions for Use
It is important to emphasize that Qutenza is for adult use only.
No studies on its efficacy have been conducted in patients under 18 years of age, and it is not recommended for children or adolescents.
Specifications and Properties of Qutenza (Capsaicin Patch)
Basic Specification Parameters
Qutenza has a standardized size: each patch measures 14 cm × 20 cm, with a total area of 280 cm².
Active Ingredient Content
Each Qutenza patch contains 8% capsaicin as the active ingredient.
Specifically, it contains 640 micrograms of capsaicin per square centimeter, with a total capsaicin content of 179 milligrams per patch.
This concentration has been validated in clinical trials to ensure efficacy while controlling the risk of adverse reactions.
Physical Structure Features
The patch adopts a precision layered structure design, consisting of the following components:
Backing layer: Serves as the foundational support structure of the patch.
Medicated adhesive layer: Contains capsaicin, the active ingredient.
Protective release liner: Transparent and unprinted, with a diagonal cut for easy application.
Auxiliary Supporting Products
Qutenza is accompanied by a dedicated cleansing gel, used to remove residual capsaicin from the skin after treatment.
The cleansing gel is packaged in a 50-gram tube, ensuring sufficient quantity for the entire treatment process.
Storage Methods for Qutenza (Capsaicin Patch)
Storage Environment Requirements
Qutenza should be stored at a temperature between 20°C and 25°C (equivalent to 68°F and 77°F).
Short-term temperature fluctuations between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F) are permitted but should be minimized as much as possible.
Packaging Integrity
The medication is stored in a sealed aluminum foil bag, which should only be opened at the time of use.
During storage, the packaging must be kept intact; if torn or damaged, the patch must not be used.
Usage Precautions
Maintain sealing: Before use, the patch must always remain in the sealed bag.
Contamination prevention: All items that have come into contact with the medication should be disposed of immediately after use.
Safety protection: Operators should wear nitrile gloves; the use of masks and safety goggles is recommended.
