WIN 55,212-2

WIN 55,212-2 is a drug described as an aminoalkylindole derivative, that produces effects similar to those of Cannabinoid derivatives such as THC but has an entirely different chemical structure.

WIN 55,212-2 is a potent cannabinoid receptor agonist which has been found to be a potent analgesic in a rat model of neuropathic pain. It activates p42 and p44 MAP kinase via receptor-mediated signaling.

WIN55,212-2, along side HU-210 and JWH-133, are implicated in preventing the inflammation caused by Amyloid beta proteins involved in Alzheimer's Disease, in addition to preventing cognitive impairment and loss of neuronal markers. This antiinflamatory action is induced through the agonization of cannabinoid receptors which prevents microglial activation that elicits the inflammation. Additionally, cannabinoids completely abolish neurotoxicity related to microglia activation in rat models.

WIN55212-2 is a weaker partial agonist than THC, but with higher affinity to the CB1 receptor. This means that the threshold dose for onset of effects is smaller than that of THC, but the maximum effects attainable are not as strong as those of THC, meaning that WIN55212-2 could potentially be used as a legal cannabis substitute drug, for instance as an alternative to medical marijuana. WIN55212-2 produces cannabis-like effects in humans within the oral dosage range of 1 to 3 miligrams however the effects are described as milder and shorter lasting when compared to THC.