K2C Patch

Generic name: levomenthol and capsaicin
Dosage form: patch
Drug class:Topical rubefacient

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 22, 2021.

Disclaimer: This drug has not been found by FDA to be safe and effective, and this labeling has not been approved by FDA. For further information about unapproved drugs, click here.

Prescriber Information

K2C Patch®

(Menthol 5% / Capsaicin 0.025% topical patch)

DESCRIPTION:

K2C Patch® is a prescription topical patch containing 15 articulated patches (5 per resealable pouch x 3 pouches).

Menthol is present in a 5% concentration (w/w). The empirical formula for menthol is C10H20O with a molecular weight of 156.27 g/mol. The chemical name is (1R,2S,5R)-2-isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexanol.

The structural formula is:

** Menthol **

Capsaicin is present in a 0.025% concentration (w/w). The molecular weight of capsaicin is 305.41 g/mol. It has an empirical formula of C18H27NO3 and is chemically designated as 8-methyl-N-vanillyl-6-nonenamide.

The structural formula is:

** Capsaicin**

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY:

Menthol has local anesthetic and counterirritant qualities, and it also acts as a weak kappa (κ) opioid receptor agonist. Menthol acts to chemically trigger the cold-sensitive TRPM-8 receptors in the skin - responsible for the well-known cooling sensation it stimulates when applied directly to the skin. Menthol's analgesic properties are not fully understood, however they are mediated through a selective activation of κ-opioid receptors. Menthol also blocks voltage-sensitive sodium channels, reducing neural activity that may stimulate muscle tissue.<...