Capsaicin, the active ingredient found in red-hot peppers, is used mainly for the relief of chronic pain of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis

Capsaicin, the active ingredient found in red-hot peppers, is used mainly for the relief of chronic pain of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Project status: The capsaicin patch developed by LTS is a flexible, rectangular patch with rounded corners with maximal surface area of 300 cm2 (smaller patches are possible) Due to its textile backing layer, the patch is one-way stretchable. It consists of a self adhesive matrix, containing capsaicin, below 0.5% in concentration, and exhibits a pleasant heat sensation and good adhesion. The intensity of the heat sensation can be varied in either direction by changing the capsaicin concentration The current formulation was tested for stability over 3 years indicating a stable patch formulation at room temperature. Competitive advantage: The main advantages of a topical capsaicin patch compared with available products on the market such as ointments or creams are: (1) application period (once per day), (2) avoidance of direct contact with the capsaicin (a solid matrix containing capsaicin), and (3) easy handling (pre-determined application area).

Phase I/II

Available for licensing. LTS will perform further development in collaboration with a partner. Further activities in the development of the patch include scale up to pilot plan production, validation and if required a clinical study in humans