Background and aims
Localized neuropathic pain (LNP) is associated with an important morbidity and a complex pharmacological management, with multiple adverse effects and poor adherence. The aim of this study was to analyse the evolution of pain and the changes in the number of patches used for analgesia in patients treated with capsaicin 8% patches.
Methods
An observational study was performed in patients with LNP treated with capsaicin 8% patches. The variables analysed were analgesic effectiveness, improvement in the neuropathic component of pain and changes in the number of patches used. Adverse effects and patients’ degree of satisfaction were also evaluated. 
Results
Forty patients (65% women) were included in the study. The mean age was 47±12.2 years, with an average pain evolution of 88±65 months. The mean baseline of continuous pain significantly improved from the beginning (VAS 6.3±1.7) to the end of the treatment (VAS 4.1±1.9), and a clear improvement in the neuropathic component of pain was observed (p<0.001). Significant differences (p<0.01) were also found in the number of patches used at the beginning (1.2±0.8) and at the end of the therapy (1±0.7). The adverse effects observed were erythema (82%), burning (72%), stinging (15%) and pruritus (7.5%), generally of mild intensity. Over 72% of patients were satisfied with the treatment.
Conclusions
In patients with LNP, treatment with repeated capsaicin 8% patches was associated with adequate pain relief and progressive reduction in the number of patches used. Moreover, the neuropathic component of pain significantly decreased with the repeated use of theses patches.

ANALGESIC IMPACT OF TREATMENT WITH REPEATED CAPSAICIN PATCHES IN LOCALIZED NEUROPATHIC PAIN