Just recently a study in Stockholm performed a study on a capsaicin 8% patch and found that patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy benefited from less pain and better sleep quality after they used this patch. Capsaicin is the active component of chili peppers, which is produces the spicy burning sensation.
In the U.S. a capsaicin patch exists for the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia, but not for diabetic neuropathy. When applied to the area where you have pain, the high concentration of capsaicin contained in the patch is released into the skin where it overstimulates the pain-sensing nerves. It can take up to 2 weeks to take full effect and can last up to 12 weeks following a single application.
Hopefully the diabetic neuropathy patch will soon come to the U.S. Capsaicin is a popular ingredient found in topical creams and ointment. Many people use the over-the-counter products that help relieve pain that include this ingredient. Talk to your doctor before trying any pain medication.
