Zucapsaicin is thought to be same as other capsaicinoids, such as capsaicin, which interferes with pain signal transmission to the spinal cord.

• 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.

• 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:

• Local:

  • Application site burning

Less Common Side Effects of Zucapsaicin Include:

• Central Nervous System:

  • Localized Warm Feeling
  • Localized Numbness

• Dermatologic:

  • Burning Sensation Of Skin

• Local:

  • Application Site Reaction
  • Application Site Irritation
  • Application-Site Pruritus
  • Application Site Rash

• Neuromuscular & Skeletal:

  • Arthralgia

• Ophthalmic:

  • Eye Irritation

• 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.