This spicy pepper extract uniquely depletes substance P of the peripheral C nerves. It is approved by the FDA for treatment of pruritis and pain. The active compounds are primarily amides of vanillylamine with fatty acids known as capsaicinoids. Other active compounds include anti-inflammatory carotenoids such as capsantain, flavonoids including apiin, steroid saponins, and volatile oils. Capsaicin rarely has induced anaphylaxis, death, and ulceration. Burning during the first few applications is common (2). It is now available as nonprescription products (3).
Two other human trials documented significant resolution of visible psoriatic lesions with six weeks of use four times daily (27,28). Other clinical studies document efficacy for chilblains, post herpetic neuralgia, and pruritis (3).