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capsaicin/menthol topical (Capzasin Quick Relief)

 

Classes: Analgesics, Topical

Dosing and uses of Capzasin Quick Relief (capsaicin/menthol topical)

 

Adult dosage forms and strengths

topical geL

  • 0.025%/10%

 

Analgesia for Minor Muscle/Joint Pain

Apply topically to affected area TID/QID for 3-4 consecutive weeks and evaluate efficacy; not to exceed 4 applications/day

Wash hands and avoid touching eyes after applying

Apply patch to affected area

 

Pediatric dosage forms and strengths

Safety and efficacy not established

 

Capzasin Quick Relief (capsaicin/menthol topical) adverse (side) effects

Frequency not defined

Capsaicin causes transient increased pain at application site (substance P release)

Stinging/burning/tingling sensation of skin

 

Warnings

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity

 

Cautions

Topical use only

Avoid eyes and mucous membranes

Do not apply to face or scalp

Do not apply to broken skin

Treated area may be sensitive to heat for several days (eg, hot water, direct sunlight, vigorous exercise)

 

Pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy category: C

Lactation: Unknown whether distributed in breast milk; do not apply to nipple or areola

Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should seek advice of healthcare professional before using OTC drugs

 

Pregnancy categories

A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.

B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.

C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.

D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.

X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.

NA: Information not available.

 

Pharmacology of Capzasin Quick Relief (capsaicin/menthol topical)

Mechanism of action

Capsaicin: Transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1) agonist; topical application causes initial TRPV1 stimulation that may cause transient pain, followed by pain relief by reduction in TRPV1-expressing nociceptive nerve endings

Menthol: Local anesthesia