ROSE REFRESH SPRAY
ROSE/ CAPSAICIN/MENTA
What it does
Capsaicin is a natural substance derived from chili peppers, often used in topical treatments to relieve pain.
Commonly used for: nerve pain (neuropathic pain), muscle pain, joint pain (arthritis), pain from shingles (postherpetic neuralgia)
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-05-22 02:34:47 · updated 2026-10-20 04:00:09
About capsaicin
Capsaicin is a natural substance derived from chili peppers, often used in topical treatments to relieve pain.
What it treats
- nerve pain (neuropathic pain)
- muscle pain
- joint pain (arthritis)
- pain from shingles (postherpetic neuralgia)
How it works
Capsaicin works by reducing the amount of a pain-signalling chemical in the body, which helps to decrease pain sensations.
Who it's for
Capsaicin is suitable for adults experiencing localized pain.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
About menta
Menta is a natural remedy often used for its soothing properties. It is commonly found in products like teas and oils.
What it treats
- upset stomach (dyspepsia)
- nausea
- headaches
- cold symptoms
How it works
Menta helps to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, which can relieve discomfort.
Who it's for
Menta can be used by adults and children who are experiencing digestive issues or mild discomfort.
Cautions
- • May cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
- • Use with caution if you have a history of gastrointestinal issues.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
About rose
Rose has been used for its potential health benefits, including its soothing properties.
What it treats
- mood enhancement
- skin care
- reducing anxiety
How it works
Rose is believed to have calming effects and may help improve mood and skin health.
Who it's for
Adults looking for natural ways to improve mood or skin condition.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: Capsaicin
BNF-referencedCapsaicin is an active compound derived from chili peppers, primarily known for its use in topical formulations for pain relief. It is specifically utilized in the management of localized neuropathic pain, including conditions like post-herpetic neuralgia and painful diabetic neuropathy. While capsaicin is effective in alleviating pain, it should be used with caution to avoid contact with broken or inflamed skin, eyes, and mucous membranes.
Indications
- Localized neuropathic pain
- Post-herpetic neuralgia
- Painful diabetic neuropathy
Dosage
Adults: Apply 3–4 times a day, using 0.075% strength, apply sparingly, and not more often than every 4 hours.
Mechanism of action
Capsaicin acts as an agonist of the TRPV1 (transient receptor potential vanilloid 1) receptor. Upon activation by capsaicin, the TRPV1 receptor opens to allow the influx of cations, particularly calcium and sodium ions, leading to depolarization of sensory neurons. This results in the induction of pain responses initially, followed by desensitization or 'defunctionalization' of nociceptor fibers, which reduces pain signaling over time. Capsaicin reduces levels of substance P, a neuropeptide associated with pain transmission, contributing to its analgesic effects.
Pharmacodynamics
Capsaicin's interaction with TRPV1 receptors leads to a series of cellular responses, including temporary loss of membrane potential and alterations in neurotrophic factor transport. The prolonged exposure to capsaicin results in persistent activation of these receptors, causing a loss of response to sensory stimuli, which is described as defunctionalization. This process results in significant changes in neuronal excitability and pain perception.
Pharmacokinetics
Capsaicin is primarily applied topically, allowing for localized effects with minimal systemic absorption. The pharmacokinetics of capsaicin involve rapid uptake into the skin and subsequent receptor-mediated effects. The duration of action can vary based on the concentration and formulation used. Capsaicin undergoes metabolism in the liver, and its effects can last for hours to days due to the desensitization of nociceptive pathways.
Contra-indications
- Known hypersensitivity to capsaicin or any of the excipients
- History of cardiovascular disease in diabetic patients
- Uncontrolled hypertension
Adverse effects
- Burning sensation at the application site
- Skin irritation
- Eye irritation if in contact with eyes
- Cough
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Palpitations
- Taste alterations
- Throat irritation
- Muscle spasms
- Sneezing
- Watering eyes
- Peripheral edema
- Tachycardia
Interactions
- Use with caution in patients taking other analgesics
- May enhance the effects of medications that affect blood pressure
- Avoid using with other topical agents that may irritate the skin
Precautions
- Avoid contact with broken or inflamed skin
- Wash hands immediately after use
- Wear nitrile gloves when applying patches
- Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes
- Avoid hot showers or baths just before or after application
- Monitored use in diabetic patients with cardiovascular disease
- Regular monitoring for side effects in long-term therapy
Pregnancy
Capsaicin should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Consult with a healthcare provider.
Breast-feeding
Use with caution while breastfeeding. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Topical cream (0.075%)
- Transdermal patches (Qutenza®)
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Clinical monograph: menta
Menta, commonly known as mint, refers to a group of aromatic herbs belonging to the Lamiaceae family. The most notable species include Mentha piperita (peppermint) and Mentha spicata (spearmint). These herbs are widely used for their flavoring properties and are also known for their medicinal benefits, which include relief from gastrointestinal discomfort and respiratory issues.
Indications
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Nausea
- Respiratory congestion
- Headaches
Dosage
Children: Refer to appropriate guidelines based on the specific formulation and condition being treated, as there is no standard dosage provided.
Adults: Refer to appropriate guidelines based on the specific formulation and condition being treated, as there is no standard dosage provided.
Mechanism of action
The primary active constituents of menta, such as menthol, exert their effects by activating TRPM8 (transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily M member 8) receptors, which are responsible for the sensation of coolness and pain relief. Menthol also has local anesthetic properties and can induce vasodilation, providing a soothing effect on mucous membranes.
Pharmacodynamics
Menta has antispasmodic, carminative, and analgesic properties, making it effective in relieving symptoms associated with digestive disorders, such as bloating and gas. Its ability to relax smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal tract contributes to its effectiveness in alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other digestive complaints.
Pharmacokinetics
Menthol is rapidly absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and has a bioavailability that allows for effective systemic and local action. It undergoes hepatic metabolism, primarily through glucuronidation. The elimination half-life is relatively short, and metabolites are primarily excreted in urine. The onset of action is typically within a few minutes when used topically or ingested.
Pregnancy
There is limited data on the use of menta during pregnancy. It is advisable to use with caution and consult a healthcare provider.
Breast-feeding
Menta is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before use.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Clinical monograph: rose
Rose, particularly the essential oils and extracts derived from the Rosa genus, is widely known for its aromatic properties and has been utilized in traditional medicine for various conditions. It is often used in aromatherapy, cosmetics, and as a flavoring agent. The therapeutic potential of rose extracts has been explored in areas such as mood enhancement, wound healing, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Indications
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Skin wounds
- Inflammation
- Aromatherapy for relaxation
Dosage
Children: Refer to relevant guidelines and literature for specific dosing recommendations, as rose extracts vary widely in concentration and formulation.
Adults: Refer to relevant guidelines and literature for specific dosing recommendations, as rose extracts vary widely in concentration and formulation.
Mechanism of action
The essential oil from rose contains various compounds such as phenyl ethanol, geraniol, and citronellol, which may exert their effects through the modulation of neurotransmitter systems. It is believed to influence the central nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Additionally, rose extracts possess antioxidant properties, which may contribute to their anti-inflammatory effects.
Pharmacodynamics
Rose extracts have been shown to have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, likely through the enhancement of serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain. The anti-inflammatory properties are attributed to the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulation of immune responses. The antioxidant activity helps protect cells from oxidative stress.
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of rose extracts are not well-documented due to variations in preparation and formulation. However, the constituents are generally absorbed through the skin or mucous membranes when used topically or in aromatherapy. The bioavailability and half-life of specific compounds can vary widely, influenced by factors such as formulation, dosage, and individual metabolism.
Pregnancy
Insufficient data on the safety of rose during pregnancy. Consult healthcare provider before use.
Breast-feeding
Limited information available. Consult healthcare provider before use.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: Capsaicin
PubChem CID 1548943Molecular formula: C18H27NO3
Mechanism of action
Capsaicin has been shown to reduce the amount of substance P associated with inflammation - however this is not believed to be its main mechanism in the relief of pain. Capsaicin's mechanism of action is attributed to "defunctionalization" of nociceptor fibers by inducing a topical hypersensitivity reaction on the skin. This alteration in pain mechanisms is due to many of the following: temporary loss of membrane potential, inability to transport neurotrophic factors leading to altered phenotype, and reversible retraction of epidermal and dermal nerve fiber terminals. Capsaicin, the pungent constituent of chili peppers, represents the paradigm for the capsaicinoids or vanilloids, a family of compounds shown to stimulate and then desensitize specific subpopulations of sensory receptors, including C-polymodal nociceptors, A-delta mechanoheat nociceptors and warm receptors of the skin, as well as enteroceptors of thin afferent fibers. ... ... In rats desensitized by intraperitoneal (ip) capsaicin (i.e., abdominal non-systemic desensitization), mainly the first but not the later fever phases were reduced. The postprandial hyperthermia to intragastric injection of BaSO4 suspension was attenuated by either ip or perineural capsaicin treatment. ... Heat and protons as well as capsaicin activate VR1 to induce the influx of cations, particularly Ca2+ and Na+ ions. Characteristic effects of capsaicin are the induction of a burning sensation after acute administration and the desensitization of sensory neurons after large doses and prolonged administration. ... Capsaicin alters several visceral functions. ... Capsaicin affects thermoregulation after intra-hypothalamic injection and releases glutamate from the hypothalamus and cerebral cortex slices, while VR1-like immunoreactivity is not apparent in these regions. ... 0.4 and 4 uM of capsaicin produced a significant tonic block on voltage-activated Na+ current (I(Na)) evoked by a depolarizing step to -40 mV from a holding potential of -100 mV (49 +/- 7% n=11, p<0.05 and 72 +/- 13% n=4, p<0.05 respectively). ... Capsaicin slowed the time decay of inactivation of I(Na), and increased the time constant of the recovery of inactivation. Capsaicin and tetrodotoxin (TTX) depressed contractility of isolated electrically driven left rat atria, being the depression of maximal velocity of force development (dF/dt(max)) with respect to control values of 19 +/- 3% at 1 uM of capsaicin and 22 +/- 2% at 1 uM of TTX. For more Mechanism of Action (Complete) data for CAPSAICIN (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.
Pharmacodynamics
Capsaicin is a TRPV1 receptor agonist. TRPV1 is a trans-membrane receptor-ion channel complex activated by temperatures higher than 43 degrees Celsius, pH lower than 6, and endogenous lipids. When activated by a combination of these factors, the channel can transiently open and initiate depolarization due to the influx of calcium and sodium ions. Because TRPV1 is commonly expressed in A-delta and mostly C fibers, depolarization results in action potentials which send impulses to the brain and spinal cord. These impulses result in capsaicin effects of warming, tingling, itching, stinging, or burning. Capsaicin also causes more persistent activation of these receptors compared to the environmental agonists, resulting in a loss of response to many sensory stimuli, described as "defunctionalization". Capsaicin is associated with many enzymatic, cytoskeletal, and osmotic changes, as well as disruption of mitochondrial respiration, impairing nociceptor function for extended periods of time.
Biological pathways
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
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