Capsaicin Topical Dosage

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Aug 4, 2023.

Usual Adult Dose for Postherpetic Neuralgia

Qutenza(R): Up to 4 patches applied to intact, non-irritated, dry skin, and allowed to remain in place for 60 minutes

Comments:

• Treatment may be repeated not more frequently than every three months.
• The patch should be applied by a physician or by a health care professional under the supervision of a physician.

Use: Management of neuropathic pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia

Usual Adult Dose for Pain

Salonpas(R)/Capsaicin(R)/Capzasin(R): Apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times a day

Uses: For the temporary relief of minor aches and pains of the muscles and joints associated with simple backache, strains, sprains, bruises, arthritis

Zostrix(R): Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily, and gently rub in until fully absorbed

Comments: Unless being treated, hands should be washed thoroughly with soap and water immediately after use.

Uses: For the temporary relief of minor aches and pains of the muscles and joints associated with strains, sprains, bruises, arthritis

Usual Adult Dose for Diabetic Nephropathy

Qutenza(R): Up to 4 patches applied to intact, non-irritated, dry skin on the feet, and allowed to remain in place for 30 minutes

Comments:

• Treatment may be repeated not more frequently than every three months.
• The patch should be applied by a physician or by a health care professional under the supervision of a physician.

Use: Management of neuropathic pain in the feet associated with diabetic peripheral neuralgia

Usual Pediatric Dose for Pain

Salonpas(R)/Capsaicin(R):

• Adolescents 12 years and older: Apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times a day

Uses: For the temporary relief of minor aches and pains of the muscles and joints associated with simple backache, strains, sprains, bruises, arthritis

Renal Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Liver Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Precautions

Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 2 years.

Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.

Dialysis

Data not available

Other Comments

Administration advice:

• Qutenza(R): The manufacturer product information should be consulted.
• Salonpas(R): Affected area should be dried and cleaned; film should be peeled from patch and applied to the skin; patch should be removed from the skin after at most 8 hours' application

General:

• Nitrile gloves should be used when handling Qutenza(R), and when cleaning capsaicin residue from the skin. Latex gloves should not be used as they do not provide adequate protection.

Frequently asked questions

• Does Qutenza contain red chili peppers?

See also:

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer