Qutenza: Topical Treatment for Neuropathy
Chronic pain is a complex and multifaceted condition that affects millions of people worldwide, disrupting lives and diminishing overall well-being. At Solutions Regenerative Medicine, we strive to offer cutting-edge, integrative treatments that address pain at its root. One such treatment we are excited to introduce is Qutenza, a capsaicin-based topical therapy designed for individuals suffering from certain types of chronic pain.
What is Qutenza?
Qutenza is a prescription-strength, capsaicin-based patch that contains 8% capsaicin—the active ingredient derived from chili peppers. Unlike over-the-counter capsaicin creams, Qutenza is specially formulated to deliver high concentrations directly to the site of pain for significant and lasting relief. This treatment is FDA-approved for managing nerve-related pain, such as:
- Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), the persistent pain that can follow shingles.
- Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) in the feet.
How Does Qutenza Work?
Capsaicin targets the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) receptors on pain-sensing nerves. By overstimulating these receptors, Qutenza effectively reduces their sensitivity to pain signals over time. This mechanism is particularly beneficial for patients experiencing nerve-related pain that hasn’t responded well to other treatments.
The application of Qutenza involves a single treatment session where the patch is applied to the skin by a trained healthcare provider. The patch remains in place for 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the treated area. After removal, the therapeutic effects can last for up to three months.
Benefits of Qutenza in Pain Management
Qutenza offers several advantages for patients dealing with chronic pain:
1. Non-Systemic Relief: Unlike oral medications, Qutenza works locally, minimizing systemic side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, or gastrointestinal issues.
2. Durable Pain Relief: Many patients report significant reductions in pain lasting for months after a single application.
3. Complementary to Other Therapies: Qutenza can be combined with other interventions, such as physical therapy, acupuncture, or nutritional strategies, to enhance overall pain management.
Off-Label Uses in Europe
In Europe, Qutenza is sometimes used off-label for conditions beyond its FDA-approved indications. These include:
- Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN): A painful condition resulting from certain cancer treatments.
- Neuropathic pain associated with HIV: Chronic pain linked to nerve damage in patients with HIV.
- Other forms of localized neuropathic pain: For instance, pain following surgical procedures or trauma.
- Large fiber neuropathy with sensory changes only: Qutenza has been utilized to manage localized neuropathic pain in patients with large fiber neuropathy, where sensory changes are the primary symptom.
Qutenza in Our Practice
Dr. Dunning take a holistic approach to chronic pain, tailoring treatment plans to each patient’s unique needs. Qutenza fits seamlessly into our philosophy, offering a minimally invasive option that can be used alongside regenerative therapies, biomechanical assessments, and traditional interventions.
Our process begins with a thorough consultation and assessment to determine whether Qutenza is appropriate for you. If so, we’ll guide you through the application process and provide supportive care to ensure your comfort during and after the procedure. We also emphasize the importance of addressing underlying contributors to pain, such as inflammation, nutritional deficiencies, or biomechanical imbalances, to achieve lasting results.
Is Qutenza Right for You?
If you’re dealing with chronic nerve pain and seeking alternatives to oral medications or invasive procedures, Qutenza could be a promising solution. We invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Dunning to explore this innovative treatment and discover how it can fit into your personalized pain management plan.
Contact us today to learn more about Qutenza or schedule your consultation. Relief may be just one session away.