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If you’re living with nerve pain caused by shingles, an injury or surgery, Qutenza® may offer effective relief. This simple, specialist skin patch uses a man-made version of capsaicin – the compound that gives chilli peppers their heat – to reduce the sensitivity of your pain nerves.
Qutenza® is a patch that’s applied to the skin by a healthcare professional. It delivers capsaicin directly to the painful area, reducing how strongly your nerves respond to pain signals.
It can help relieve pain caused by:
- Shingles (after the rash has healed)
- Nerve damage after surgery or injury
- Side effects from certain medications
Most people start to feel relief within 1 to 3 weeks after treatment. The effects can last for several months.
Qutenza® is suitable for adults who have localised nerve pain. It’s used alone or alongside other pain-relieving medications.
It may not be suitable if:
- You are allergic to capsaicin (also found in chilli peppers)
- You have open wounds or broken skin in the treatment area
- You have uncontrolled high blood pressure or certain heart conditions
Your pain specialist will assess your suitability during a consultation.
Qutenza® patches are only applied by a doctor or nurse. Here’s what happens:
1. The most painful area on your skin is marked.
2. The area is cleaned and any hair is clipped.
3. A numbing cream or oral pain relief may be used beforehand.
4. The Qutenza® patch is applied for 30 to 60 minutes (depending on the area).
5. After removal, a cleansing gel is used to clean the skin.
6. The area is then gently washed with soap and water.
You may feel some warmth, stinging or redness during and shortly after treatment – this is normal. Your blood pressure will be monitored during the process, and you may be given additional pain relief if needed.
- Pain relief may begin between 1 and 3 weeks after your session.
- If pain returns, Qutenza® can be repeated every 90 days.
- If the treatment doesn’t bring enough relief, speak to your consultant.
Important: Avoid touching your eyes, face or other sensitive areas after treatment as the patch can cause irritation. Let your clinical team handle all aspects of the patch removal and skin cleaning.
If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant, let your doctor know. You may be advised to stop breastfeeding before treatment. Qutenza® doesn’t usually interact with other medications, but please bring a list of anything you're taking to your consultation.
To find out if Qutenza® could help relieve your nerve pain, book a consultation with one of our experienced Pain Management Consultants.
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