How Long Do Capsicum Plasters Last for Pain Management?
Capsicum plasters provide targeted pain relief via capsaicin, an active ingredient derived from chili peppers. For chronic pain sufferers, understanding these plasters' duration is key for effective use. So how long does their pain relieving effect actually last once applied?
Duration of Pain Relief
Potency Level Determines Relief Length
- Low potency plaster: 4-6 hours
- High potency plaster: 8-24 hours
Higher potency Capsicum plasters to longer pain relief. Strong adhesion also enables capsaicin absorption over extended periods from a single application.
Frequency of Re-application
- Mild pain: 1 plaster daily
- Moderate pain: 1 plaster/12 hours
- Severe pain: 1 plaster/8 hours
Re-application frequency depends on pain severity. But robust plasters can provide 24 hours of coverage for milder conditions.
Post-Removal Residual Effects
After removal, desensitized skin continues providing reduced pain transmission for:
- Low potency: 1-2 hours
- High potency: Up to 8 hours
So analgesic benefits persist thanks to nerve fiber desensitization.
Maximizing Overall Duration
Choose the highest tolerable potency capsicum plasters and continue re-applying fresh plasters right as previous ones become less effective. This regimen enables ongoing pain relief even for chronic pain symptoms.