Topical application of ASN008, a permanently charged sodium channel blocker, shows robust efficacy, a rapid onset and long duration of action in a mouse model of pruritus

Background: Pruritus, or itch, is associated with a wide variety of conditions, including skin and medical disorders, allergies and infections, and exposure to some medications. In many of these conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, the intense pruritus and associated scratching can result in exacerbation of the disease and a reduced quality of life. The itching sensation is transmitted through afferent C-fibers. Sodium channels play a key role in the transmission process. Indeed, topical local anesthetics, which block sodium channels and are used to treat itch, generally have a short duration of action, and importantly, are not selective for itch-sensing neurons.
Source: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology - Category: Dermatology Source Type: research