| Pronunciation |
 (kap
SAY
sin) |
 |
| U.S. Brand Names |
| Capsin®[OTC]; Capzasin-P®[OTC]; Dolorac™[OTC]; No Pain-HP®[OTC]; R-Gel®[OTC]; Zostrix®[OTC]; Zostrix®-HP [OTC] |
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| Generic Available |
|
No |
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| Pharmacological Index |
|
Analgesic, Topical; Topical Skin Product |
|
| Use |
|
FDA approved for the topical treatment of pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, diabetic neuropathy, and postsurgical pain. |
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| Pregnancy Risk Factor |
|
C |
|
| Contraindications |
|
Hypersensitivity to capsaicin or any component |
|
| Adverse Reactions |
|
>10%: Local: greater than or equal to 30%: Transient burning on application which usually diminishes with repeated use 1% to 10%: Dermatologic: Itching, stinging sensation, erythema Respiratory: Cough |
|
| Drug Interactions |
|
No data reported |
|
| Mechanism of Action |
|
Induces release of substance P, the principal chemomediator of pain impulses from the periphery to the CNS, from peripheral sensory neurons; after repeated application, capsaicin depletes the neuron of substance P and prevents reaccumulation |
|
| Pharmacodynamics/Kinetics |
|
Data following the use of topical capsaicin in humans are lacking Duration: Several hours |
|
| Usual Dosage |
|
Children greater than or equal to 2 years and Adults: Topical: Apply to affected area at least 3-4 times/day; application frequency less than 3-4 times/day prevents the total depletion, inhibition of synthesis, and transport of substance P resulting in decreased clinical efficacy and increased local discomfort |
|
| Mental Health: Effects on Mental Status |
|
None reported |
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| Mental Health: Effects on Psychiatric Treatment |
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None reported |
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| Dental Health: Local Anesthetic/Vasoconstrictor Precautions |
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No information available to require special precautions |
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| Dental Health: Effects on Dental Treatment |
|
No effects or complications reported |
|
| Patient Information |
|
For external use only; wash hands immediately after application; discontinue if severe burning or itching occurs; if symptoms persist longer than 14-28 days, contact physician |
|
| Nursing Implications |
|
Wash hands with soap and water after applying to avoid spreading cream to eyes or other sensitive areas of the body |
|
| Dosage Forms |
|
Cream: Capzasin-P®, Zostrix®: 0.025% (45 g, 90 g) Dolorac™: 0.25% (28 g) Zostrix®-HP: 0.075% (30 g, 60 g) Gel (R-Gel®): 0.025% (15 g, 30 g) Lotion (Capsin®): 0.025% (59 mL); 0.075% (59 mL) Roll-on (No Pain-HP®): 0.075% (60 mL) |
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