KN38-7271

KN38-7271 (also known as BAY 38-7271) is a small molecule dual agonist of the cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors. Originally developed by Bayer AG and later licensed to KeyNeurotek Pharmaceuticals, the compound was investigated for its neuroprotective and analgesic properties in acute neurodegenerative conditions, specifically traumatic brain injury (TBI) and stroke. The drug's mechanism involves the activation of cannabinoid receptors to mitigate secondary brain damage following an acute insult. In a Phase IIa clinical trial involving comatose patients with severe TBI, KN38-7271 was found to be safe and well-tolerated, with some evidence of improved early survival. It received Orphan Drug Designation from the European Medicines Agency for the treatment of craniocerebral trauma. However, development of the compound has since been discontinued.