S-444,823 is a drug developed by
Shionogi which is a
cannabinoid agonist.[1] It was developed as an
antipruritic, 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 and
catalepsy that are seen with centrally acting CB1 agonists.[2]
^Odan M, Ishizuka N, Hiramatsu Y, Inagaki M, Hashizume H, Fujii Y, et al. (April 2012). "Discovery of S-444823, a potent CB1/CB2 dual agonist as an antipruritic agent". Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters. 22 (8): 2898–901.
doi:
10.1016/j.bmcl.2012.02.050.
PMID22421019.