Topical capsaicin may be of benefit for chronic neuropathic pain

January 01, 0001

Topical capsaicin may be of benefit for chronic neuropathic pain

Clinical Question:How effective is topical capsaicin for chronic neuropathic pain in adults?

Bottom line: Six studies compared regular application of low-dose (0.075%) capsaicin cream with placebo cream; the NNT* for any pain relief over 6 to 8 weeks was 6.6 (4.1 to 17). Two studies compared a single application of high-dose (8%) capsaicin patch with placebo patch; the NNT for ³30% pain relief over 12 weeks was 12 (6.4 to 70). Local skin irritation, which is often mild and transient but may lead to withdrawal, is common. The NNH** for repeated low-dose application was 2.5 (2.1 to 3.1). Systemic adverse effects were rare. * NNT = number needed to treat to benefit 1 individual (95% confidence intervals) ** NNH = number needed to treat to cause harm in 1 individual (95% confidence intervals)

Caveat: All studies satisfied minimum criteria for quality and validity but maintenance of blinding remained a potential problem. The limited amount of data for different neuropathic conditions and inconsistent definition of outcome meant estimates for the number of participants achieving clinically useful levels of pain relief were not robust.

Context: Topical creams with capsaicin are used to treat pain resulting from a wide range of chronic conditions, including neuropathic pain. Following application to the skin, capsaicin causes enhanced sensitivity to noxious stimuli, followed by a period with reduced sensitivity and, after repeated applications, persistent desensitisation.

Cochrane Systematic Review: Derry S et al. Topical capsaicin for chronic neuropathic pain in adults. Cochrane Reviews 2009, Issue 4. Article No. CD007393. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007393.pub2. This review contains 8 trials involving 1098 participants.

Cochrane PEARLS Practical Evidence About Real Life Situations. No. 252, April 2010. .
Written by Brian R McAvoy. Published by the Cochrane Primary Care Group

Category: A. General/Unspecified. Keywords: chronic pain, neuropathic, capsaicin
Synopsis edited by Dr Linda French, Toledo, Ohio. Posted on Global Family Doctor 31 August 2010

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Pearls are an independent product of the Cochrane primary care group and are meant for educational use and not to guide clinical care.