TheraRadar
Data updated: Mar 29, 2026

QUTENZA

CAPSAICIN
Neurology Approved 2009-11-16

QUTENZA is a topical TRPV1 channel agonist indicated for the treatment of neuropathic pain in adult patients. It is specifically approved for managing pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia and diabetic peripheral neuropathy of the feet. The medication provides a localized therapeutic approach for patients suffering from these chronic nerve-related conditions.

Source: FDA Label β€’ AVERITAS

How QUTENZA Works

Capsaicin acts as an agonist for the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) receptor, an ion channel-receptor complex located on pain-sensing nerve fibers in the skin. Topical administration initially stimulates these cutaneous nociceptors, which may be associated with painful sensations. This process is followed by pain relief mediated by a reduction in TRPV1-expressing nerve endings, which lasts until the nerve fibers eventually reinnervate the treated area.

2
Indications
--
Phase 3 Trials
16
Years on Market

Details

Status
Prescription
First Approved
2009-11-16
Routes
TOPICAL
Dosage Forms
PATCH

Companies

Active Ingredient: CAPSAICIN

QUTENZA Approval History

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What QUTENZA Treats

3 indications

QUTENZA is approved for 3 conditions since its original approval in 2009. These indications span multiple therapeutic areas including oncology, immunology, and more.

  • Neuropathic Pain
  • Postherpetic Neuralgia
  • Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Source: FDA Label
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Ongoing clinical trials by development phase

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Key Completed Trials

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Completed studies with published results, ranked by significance

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Trial Timeline

Full development history with FDA approval milestones

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Understanding FDA Approval Types
Count Type What it means
- ORIG Original approval - drug first enters market
- SUPPL - Efficacy New indication (new disease/condition approved)
- SUPPL - Labeling Label text changes (warnings, dosing updates)
- SUPPL - Manufacturing Production changes (new facility)
- SUPPL - Chemistry Formulation changes (new dosage strength)

Green lines in the timeline show ORIG and Efficacy approvals - the clinically meaningful milestones.

QUTENZA FDA Label Details

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Indications & Usage

FDA Label (PDF)

QUTENZA is indicated in adults for the treatment of neuropathic pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and for neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) of the feet. QUTENZA is a TRPV1 channel agonist indicated for the treatment of neuropathic pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) of the feet.

QUTENZA Patents & Exclusivity

Latest Patent: Mar 2030

Patents (2 active)

US8821920 Expires Mar 26, 2030
US9226903 Expires Dec 15, 2028
Source: FDA Orange Book

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Data Sources

Data sourced from official FDA and NIH databases. Click links to verify on original sources.