Topical capsaicin for treatment of hemodialysis-related pruritus.
Pruritus is a significant problem for many patients undergoing long-term hemodialysis. Topical capsaicin depletes and prevents the reaccumulation of substance P in peripheral sensory neurons. Substance P functions in the transmission of pain and probably itch sensations. An open-label, uncontrolled trial and a double-blind, vehicle-controlled trial were conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of capsaicin 0.025% cream in the treatment of localized areas of pruritus in patients undergoing long-term hemodialysis. Eight of nine evaluable patients in the open-label trial reported marked relief or complete resolution of itching during the study period, and two of five evaluable patients in the double-blind trial reported complete resolution of itching in the capsaicin-treated arm with no or minimal improvement in the vehicle-treated arm. Twelve patients in the open-label trial and two in the double-blind trial were unevaluable. No serious treatment-related adverse reactions occurred.
Breneman
D L
DL
Department of Dermatology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, OH.
Cardone
J S
JS
Blumsack
R F
RF
Lather
R M
RM
Searle
E A
EA
Pollack
V E
VE
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002211:Capsaicin / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011537:Pruritus / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D006435:Renal Dialysis / Q000009:adverse effects*
D002211:Capsaicin