The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
Shingles-related nerve pain:
- Redness at application site (63%)
- Pain at application site (42%)
Diabetic nerve pain in the feet:
- Burning sensation at application site (14%)
- Pain in arms or legs (11%)
- Pain at application site (10%)
Less Common Side Effects
Shingles-related nerve pain:
- Swelling or raised areas of skin at application site
- Itching or dryness at application site
- General itching
- Common cold
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- High blood pressure
Diabetic nerve pain in the feet:
- Redness at application site
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Cough
- Headache
- High blood pressure
Source: DailyMed
The following Qutenza side effects have also been reported
Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:
More common - all forms
Burning, itching, dryness, pain, redness, swelling, or soreness at the application site
Less common - all forms
Body aches or pain
chills
difficulty with breathing
dry or productive cough
ear congestion
headache
loss of voice
stuffy or runny nose
tightness in the chest
unusual tiredness or weakness
Less common - patch only
Blurred vision
breakdown of the skin
dizziness
nervousness
pain in the arms or legs
pounding in the ears
slow or fast heartbeat
Incidence not known - patch only
Bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet
burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings
increased sensitivity to pain or touch
scarring of the skin
stabbing pain
throat irritation
unusual weight gain or loss
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
Incidence not known - patch only
Abnormal skin odor
change in or loss of taste
Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
