Zucapsaicin is thought to be same as other capsaicinoids, such as capsaicin, which interferes with pain signal transmission to the spinal cord.
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It is used in conjunction with an oral NSAID or COX-2 inhibitor for short- term (≤3 months) management of severe pain that happens with osteoarthritis of the knee not controlled by NSAID or COX-2 inhibitor monotherapy.
Zucapsaicin dose in Adults
Dosage for pain relief in osteoarthritis of the knee:
- A pea-sized amount is applied to 3 locations around affected knee thrice a day
- A gap of 4 hours should be given between applications (maximum: 3 applications/day).
- Therapy should be limited to less than 3 months.
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Missed dose:
- Apply the dose as soon as possible, but not within 4 hours of the next dose.
Zucapsaicin dose in Children
Not applicable.
Zucapsaicin pregnancy Risk Factor: B
- Animal reproduction studies have not shown any adverse events.
- After topical administration, Zucapsaicin cannot be absorbed systemically.
- The fetus is not exposed to significant amounts of the drug during pregnancy.
Zucapsaicin use during breastfeeding:
- Whether zucapsaicin is present in breast milk is unknown.
- The producer advises women who are nursing to use zucapsaicin with caution.
Zucapsaicin dose in Renal disease:
- There are no dosage adjustments given in the manufacturer’s labeling
- But dosage adjustment does not appear to be required since there is no systemic absorption following topical administration of zucapsaicin.
Zucapsaicin dose in Liver disease:
- There are no dosage adjustments given in the manufacturer’s labeling
- But dosage adjustment does not appear to be required since there is no systemic absorption following topical administration of zucapsaicin.
Common Side Effects of Zucapsaicin Include:
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Local:
- Application site burning
Less Common Side Effects of Zucapsaicin Include:
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Central Nervous System:
- Localized Warm Feeling
- Localized Numbness
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Dermatologic:
- Burning Sensation Of Skin
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Local:
- Application Site Reaction
- Application Site Irritation
- Application-Site Pruritus
- Application Site Rash
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Neuromuscular & Skeletal:
- Arthralgia
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Ophthalmic:
- Eye Irritation
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Respiratory:
- Cough
- Sneezing
Contraindication to Zucapsaicin Include:
- Hypersensitivity to zucapsaicin and any part of the formulation
- It shouldn't be used on broken or irritated skin, or areas that have a compromised skin barrier.
Warnings and precautions
- Cough:
- Can cause cough
- Do not apply to the face.
- After each application, wash your hands thoroughly.
Monitor:
None required.
How to administer Zucapsaicin?
- It is used for external use only on intact skin
- It should not be applied to broken or irritated skin.
- It should be gently rubbed in a circular motion into affected knee until no remaining drug is left on the skin.
- Do not cover the treated area by an occlusive dressing.
- Hands should be washed thoroughly after each application.
- Do not take a hot bath or shower immediately before or after administration (can cause a burning sensation).
- Contact should be avoided with eyes, lips, and genital area.
- Do not concomitantly apply with other topical medications to treated areas.
Mechanism of action of Zucapsaicin:
- Actions are thought to be same to other capsaicinoids, such as capsaicin, which is a transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 receptor (TRPV1) agonist, which activates TRPV1 ligand-gated cation channels on nociceptive nerve fibers, causing depolarization, initiation of action potential & pain signal transmission to the spinal cord.
- Capsaicin can cause depletion proinflammatory neuropeptides (eg. substance P, calcitonin-related peptide), desensitization and inhibition of pain transmission.
- Capsaicin triggers the release of substance P, which is the main chemomediator for pain impulses from the peripheral to the CNS and from the sensory neurons.
- Capsaicin is able to deplete the neuron of substance PP and prevents its reaccumulation after multiple applications.
Absorption: Systemic absorption is very low
International Brands of Zucapsaicin:
- Capinorod
Zucapsaicin Brands in Pakistan:
No Brands available in Pakistan.