Use of GABA
A compound for use in the treatment of itch is provided, wherein the compound comprises the general formula (1a), general formula (1b) or general formula (1c). The compounds of the invention are positive allosteric α2 and/or α3 GABA A receptor modulators.
1. A method of treating a pruritic condition in a subject, comprising administering to the subject a compound that comprises the general formula (5a),
wherein,
R 1 is an unsubstituted biphenyl or a substituted biphenyl comprising at least one —CN as a substituent; and
R 7 is an unsubstituted C 1 -C 6 alcohol,
wherein the compound is a positive, allosteric a2 or a3 GABA A receptor modulator.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein R 7 is an unsubstituted C 3 alcohol.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein R 7 is an unsubstituted isopropanol.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the —CN is on the phenyl moiety not connected to the parent moiety.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein R 1 is a substituted biphenyl, and wherein one phenyl moiety of the biphenyl comprises at least one —F as a substituent.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein R 1 is a substituted biphenyl, and wherein each phenyl moiety of the biphenyl comprises one —F as a substituent.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the subject is an animal.
8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the pruritic condition is associated with atopic dermatitis, kidney disease, liver disease, or treatment with opioids.
9. The method of claim 1 , further comprising administering a corticosteroid, gabapentinoide, an opioid-receptor antagonist, capsaicin, or a local anesthetic to the subject.
10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the compound is administered to the subject at a dose of at least 0.01 mg/kg of the subject's bodyweight.
11. The method of claim 1 , wherein the compound is administered to the subject at a dose of at least 0.03 mg/kg of the subject's bodyweight.
12. The method of claim 1 , wherein the compound is