Planta Med 2015; 81 - PM_03
DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1565380

Capsaicin Heat Plaster in the treatment of muscular back pain. Results of a non-interventional observational study

M Kuhlmann 1, S Saladin 1, K Klensang 1, S Conzelmann 1
  • 1Beiersdorf AG, Hamburg, Germany

Topical capsaicin formulations are widely used for management of various pain conditions with safety and efficacy supported by numerous studies and meta-analysis [1,2,3]. To confirm the therapeutic effect a medicated capsaicin plaster (ABC Wärmepflaster Capsicum 11 mg) was investigated in patients with muscular back pain in routine clinical practice.

A total of 232 patients with mild to moderate back pain were enrolled in the prospective, multicenter, non-interventional observational study with 11 general practitioners (GPs) in Germany. Data was collected before and after the 3 – 5 day treatment. Main outcome measures included changes in pain intensity using a visual analog scale (VAS) and global assessment of effectiveness and tolerability by patients and physicians.

Data of 229 patients were eligible for analysis. Mean average pain intensity considerably improved by 5.1 points from initial scores of 6.6 to 1.7 at visit 2 (VAS). 93.4% of patients reported improvement or being free of pain. Physicians (86.8%) rated effectiveness as good or very good. During treatment only two adverse effects were reported. Physicians assessed local tolerability as good or very good (81%). Patients reported fast and lasting pain relief and heat sensation. Questionnaires confirmed the practical and convenient use of the plaster. Consequently, patients (83.1%) were satisfied or very satisfied with the treatment and 86.5% plan to use the plaster in future.

The observational study in patients with back pain in routine medical care confirmed findings from previous clinical trials. Physicians and patients perceive the capsaicin plaster as an efficacious topical treatment. The plaster was generally well tolerated and associated with high therapy satisfaction.

References:

[1] O'Neill J et al. Pharmacol Rev 2012; 64 :939 – 71.

[2] Keitel W et al. Arzneimittelforschung 2001; 51: :896 – 903.

[3] Frerick H et al. Pain 2003; 106: :59 – 64.