Topical Capsaicin in Severe Neuropathic Pain.

A case of severe neuropathic pain in a middle-aged Swiss patient that did not respond well to several routine approaches is described. A topical 8% capsaicin patch was effective. The use, limitations, efficacy, and mechanism of action for this pharmacotherapy are discussed. Perspectives on this case are provided by consultants from the United Kingdom and Sweden are provided. This feature is adapted from paineurope 2011; Issue 4, ©Haymarket Medical Publications Ltd., and is presented with permission. paineurope is provided as a service to pain management by Mundipharma International, Ltd., and is distributed free of charge to health care professionals in Europe. Archival issues can be accessed via the Web site: http://www.paineurope.com, at which European health professionals can register online to receive copies of the quarterly publication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]