Desensitization of nociceptive sensory nerve endings is the basis for the therapeutic use of
capsaicin in neuropathic pain syndromes. This study evaluated the pharmacodynamic
effects of a single 60-minute application of NGX-4010, a high-concentration (8% w/w)
capsaicin patch, on both thighs of healthy volunteers. Epidermal nerve fiber (ENF) density
and quantitative sensory testing (QST) using thermal, tactile, and sharp mechanical-pain
(pinprick) stimuli were evaluated 1, 12 and 24 weeks after capsaicin exposure. After 1 week …