Our Therapies

QUTENZA® Infusion Therapy

About QUTENZA®

QUTENZA® (capsaicin 8% patch) uses a high concentration of capsaicin, which is the active compound in chili peppers, to provide long-lasting nerve pain relief. The medication works by temporarily desensitizing nerve endings that transmit pain signals. After application, these nerve fibers become less able to send pain signals to your brain, providing relief that can last for weeks or months.

This targeted approach treats pain locally at the source without affecting the rest of your body, offering a non-opioid option for chronic nerve pain management.

Condition treated by this therapy

QUTENZA® is FDA-approved for:

Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN): Nerve pain following shingles
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy of the feet (DPN-f): Nerve pain in the feet caused by diabetes

QUTENZA® Price

The cost of prescription medications can vary depending on your insurance coverage. If you're concerned about the price of your medication:

Contact your insurance provider to understand your coverage
Ask your doctor or pharmacist about lower-cost alternatives
Check with the drug manufacturer about financial assistance programs
Explore patient assistance options if you're uninsured or underinsured

Remember, many resources exist to help patients access necessary medications. Don't hesitate to ask for help if you're struggling with medication costs. No patient should go without necessary treatment due to financial limitations. If you have questions about financial assistance opportunities, contact a member of our Violet Health team.

What to Expect During QUTENZA® Patch Application

Before your appointment please ensure the following:

Avoid applying lotions or creams to the treatment area
Wear loose, comfortable clothing
Plan for 1.5-2 hours at our center
Consider arranging transportation, especially for your first treatment

During the treatment process QUTENZA® patches are applied to the affected area and left in place for 30-60 minutes depending on the area. You may feel a warming or burning sensation which is normal; it means the medication is working. Our clinical staff will monitor you closely and provide cooling measures for comfort. Rest assured and relax in your own private room equipped with an entertainment bar, business center and zero gravity massage chair.

After treatment, the treated area may be red or sensitive for a few hours to days. You'll receive detailed aftercare instruictions. Most patients return to normal activities the same day, though pain relief typically begins within a few days.

QUTENZA® Side Effects

Common side affects (at application site) include:

Burning, stinging or pain
Dry skin or peeling
Redness
Swelling
Itching

These affects are typically temporary and resolve within days to weeks.

Less common side affects may include changes to the skin at the site, coughing or sneezing during application, temporary blood pressure increase and/or nausea.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any sign of alleergic reaction, severe or worsening pain, signs of infection (warmth, pus, spreading redness) or if your eyes are exposed to the medication (flush immediately with cool water and seek care).

To minimize exposure, do not touch treated areas and then touch eyes, mouth or other sensitive areas. If you must touch the treated area wash hands thoroughly afterwards as soon as possible.

QUTENZA® at Violet Health

Your comfort during your QUTENZA® therapy at Violet Health is our priority. Our patients enjoy walk-up parking, complimentary entertainment and snacks, and a team of highly trained providers during each treatment. Plus, Violet Health’s evening and weekend hours and convenient city and rural locations make it easier to schedule your appointments.

Violet Health Infusion Centers provides infusion therapy for patients with rare, chronic, or complex conditions in a comfortable, patient-centered atmosphere.

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Helpful Resources

Patient Forms

Before you attend your first appointment at Violet Health, please make sure to review the documents below. Please contact us if you have any questions!