Painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy of the feet: integrating prescription-strength capsaicin into office procedures.

Abstract

Prescription-strength (8%) capsaicin topical systemisa USFDA-approvedtreatment for painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy of the feet. A 30min application of the capsaicin 8% topical system can provide sustained (up to 3months) local pain relief by desensitizing and reducing TRPV1-expressing cutaneous fibers. Capsaicin is not absorbed systemically; despite associated application-site discomfort, capsaicin 8% topical system iswell tolerated, with no known drug interactions or contraindications, and could offer clinical advantages over oral options. Capsaicin 8% topical systemare not for patient self-administration and require incorporation into office procedures, with the added benefit of treatment compliance. This article reviews existing literature and provides comprehensive, practical information regarding the integration of capsaicin 8% topical systems into office procedures.