Proper Use
Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®
A doctor or other trained healthcare professional will apply the topical Qutenza® patch to the affected area of your body in a medical facility.
During the patch application:
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Your doctor may apply a numbing medicine to the treatment area to help lessen the discomfort during the patch application.
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Leave the patch in place for at least 60 minutes for postherpetic neuralgia or 30 minutes for diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Do not touch the patch while it is on your skin. Your doctor may also cover the treatment area with a rolled gauze or dressing to keep the patch in place.
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Your doctor will apply a cleansing gel for at least 1 minute after removing the patch.
If you are using the topical cream, gel, lotion, or ointment for neuralgia, muscle pain, or arthritis, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
Be careful not to get any of this medicine into your eyes, because it can cause severe eye irritation. If the medicine does get in your eyes, wash the eyes with water and check with your doctor right away.
If capsaicin gets on your face, scalp, or in your mouth, it may cause a burning sensation. Wash these areas with warm (not hot) soapy water.
If you are using the cream, gel, lotion, or ointment:
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Do not put the medicine on wounds or irritated skin.
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Apply a small amount of medicine and use your fingers to rub it in well so very little or no medicine is left on the skin.
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Wash your hands with soap and water after applying the medicine to avoid getting it into your eyes or on other sensitive areas of the body.
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If you are using capsaicin for arthritis in your hands, do not wash your hands for at least 30 minutes after applying it.
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If a bandage is being used on the treated area, do not wrap it tightly.
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Use the medicine regularly every day as directed. It may take a full 2 weeks before your pain goes away.
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If your condition gets worse, or does not improve after one month, check with your doctor.
Do not use any other topical medicine on the same area where you are using capsaicin. Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated skin areas.
Dosing
The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.
The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.
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For topical dosage form (cream, gel, lotion, or ointment):
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For arthritis, muscle pain, or neuralgia:
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Adults—Apply 3 or 4 times a day and rub it in well.
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Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.
Storage
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.
Portions of this document last updated: Feb. 01, 2024
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