PRIMARY STUDY

The synthetic cannabinoid agonist WIN 55,212-2 reduces experimental pruritus via CB2 receptor activation

Key Findings:  Activation of the CB2 significantly reduces itching (pruritus) in mice, without impairing movement. The synthetic cannabinoid WIN 55,212-2 and Δ8-THC both reduced scratching behavior. In contrast, β-caryophyllene unexpectedly increased scratching, acting as a pruritogen. These findings support the potential of CB2-targeted cannabinoid therapies for treating pruritus.