Topical capsaicin for pain in osteoarthritis: A literature review

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2018

Authors

Guedes, V (Author) Other; Castro, JP (Author) Other; Brito, I (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Reumatologia Clinica

Vol. 14

Pages: 40-45

ISSN: 1699-258X

Publisher: Elsevier

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 3 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00N-MN9

Abstract (EN): Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disorder worldwide. The predominant symptom, pain, is usually treated with acetaminophen or oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, although they are associated with a significant risk of side effects. Topical capsaicin may represent an effective and safe alternative. The aim of this review is to examine the evidence for the efficacy and safety profile of topical capsaicin in the management of pain caused by osteoarthritis. Databases were searched for articles published between 2004 and 2016, in Portuguese, English or Spanish, using the search terms "capsaicin" and "osteoarthritis". When compared to placebo, it was found that topical capsaicin has a good safety profile and efficacy in reducing osteoarthritis pain of the hand, knee, hip or shoulder. However, the studies have significant limitations, the most important the difficulty of blinding. It is attributed to this review the strength of recommendation B.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 6