A double-blind evaluation of topical capsaicin in pruritic psoriasis.

BACKGROUND

Substance P, an undecapeptide neurotransmitter, has been implicated in the pathophysiology of psoriasis and pruritus.

OBJECTIVE

Safety and efficacy of topical capsaicin, a potent substance P depletor, were evaluated in patients with pruritic psoriasis.

METHODS

Patients applied capsaicin 0.025% cream (n = 98) or vehicle (n = 99) four times a day for 6 weeks in this double-blind study. Efficacy was based on a physician's global evaluation and a combined psoriasis severity score including scaling, thickness, erythema, and pruritus.

RESULTS

Capsaicin-treated patients demonstrated significantly greater improvement in global evaluation (p = 0.024 after 4 weeks and p = 0.030 after 6 weeks) and in pruritus relief (p = 0.002 and p = 0.060, respectively), as well as a significantly greater reduction in combined psoriasis severity scores (p = 0.030 and p = 0.036, respectively). The most frequently reported side effect in both treatment groups was a transient burning sensation at application sites.

CONCLUSION

Topically applied capsaicin effectively treats pruritic psoriasis, a finding that supports a role for substance P in this disorder.