S-444,823 is a drug developed by Shionogi which is a

cannabinoid Cannabinoids () are several structural classes of compounds found primarily in the ''Cannabis'' plant or as synthetic compounds. The most notable cannabinoid is the phytocannabinoid tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) (delta-9-THC), the primary psychoact ...

agonist.Arimura A. Novel Use of Cannabinoid Receptor Agonist. Patent WO 2005/016351
/ref> It was developed as an

antipruritic Antipruritics, abirritants, or anti-itch drugs, are medications that inhibit itching (Latin: ''pruritus''). Itching is often associated with sunburns, allergic reactions, eczema, psoriasis, chickenpox, Fungal infection in animals, fungal infections ...

, and has moderate selectivity for the CB₂ subtype, having a CB₂ affinity of 18nM, and 32x selectivity over the CB₁ receptor. In animal studies it showed analgesic effects and strongly reduced itching responses, but without producing side effects such as

sedation Sedation is the reduction of irritability or agitation by administration of sedative drugs, generally to facilitate a medical procedure or diagnostic procedure. Examples of drugs which can be used for sedation include isoflurane, diethyl ether, ...

and

catalepsy Catalepsy (from Ancient Greek , , "seizing, grasping") is a neurological condition characterized by muscular rigidity and fixity of posture regardless of external stimuli, as well as decreased sensitivity to pain. Signs and symptoms Sympt ...

that are seen with centrally acting CB₁ agonists.

References

Cannabinoids Nitrogen heterocycles Thiazoles Heterocyclic compounds with 2 rings {{cannabinoid-stub

See also

References