Clinical Outcomes Associated with the use of the 8% Capsaicin Patch in Localized Neuropathic Pain: A Quasi-Experimental Study.

Objectives

To evaluate the clinical outcomes associated with the use of an 8% capsaicin patch on pain intensity, quality of life, and sleep quality in patients with localized neuropathic pain, and to analyze the role of nurses in its application and follow-up within a hospital chronic pain unit.

Methods

A longitudinal quasi-experimental pre-post study was conducted at the Chronic Pain Unit of Virgen del Rocío University Hospital in Seville (Spain) between 2019 and 2024. A total of 110 patients were included and followed for six months. Pain intensity, quality of life, and sleep quality were assessed at multiple time points using validated instruments (Numerical Verbal Scale, EuroQol-5D, and MOS Sleep Scale). In addition, the Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) was used to determine the Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID) from the patient's perspective.

Results

Of 117 recruited patients, 110 completed the study (mean age 57.2 years; 58.2% women). Most presented lower limb pain (63.6%) and post-surgical neuropathy (75.5%). Significant improvements were observed in pain, quality of life, and sleep quality at both follow-up points. Clinically meaningful pain reductions (≥1.5 points at one month, ≥3 points at three months, p ≤ 0.05) were achieved. Adverse events were minimal and well tolerated.

Conclusion

The use of the 8% capsaicin patch was associated with improvements in pain and related outcomes and showed a favourable safety profile. Nurses play an important role in the application, patient education, and follow-up of this intervention. Specific training in this intervention could improve care quality and patient outcomes. Further studies should assess its long-term efficacy and combination with systemic therapies.