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Post-herpetic neuralgia and topical capsaicin
Peter N C Watson1, Ramon J Evans, Verna R Watt
1Smythe Pain Clinic, Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont. M5G 2C4 Canada.
Pain
|June 1, 1988
Summary
Topical capsaicin shows promise for treating post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) pain, with over half of patients experiencing significant relief. However, a burning side effect led some to discontinue treatment, necessitating further research.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Dermatology
- Pain Management
Background:
- Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a chronic pain condition often resulting from herpes zoster (shingles).
- Managing PHN can be challenging, especially in elderly patients who may not tolerate oral medications well.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of topical 0.025% capsaicin for treating post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN).
Main Methods:
- A trial involving 33 patients with PHN treated with topical 0.025% capsaicin.
- Pain relief and adverse effects were assessed over a 4-week period.
Main Results:
- 39% of patients achieved good results, and 55% reported improvement or better.
- Among those completing the study (23 patients), 56% experienced good to excellent pain relief.
- A common side effect was post-capsaicin burning, leading to premature trial termination in about one-third of patients.
Conclusions:
- Topical capsaicin may be a beneficial treatment for PHN, particularly for elderly patients.
- The treatment requires medical supervision due to potential side effects.
- A double-blind, controlled trial is recommended to further validate these findings.