V158866

V158866 is an orally available small molecule inhibitor of fatty acid amide hydrolase 1 (FAAH), developed as a potential treatment for pain syndromes, particularly neuropathic pain. FAAH is an enzyme responsible for breaking down endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids) such as anandamide. By inhibiting FAAH, V158866 increases levels of these endocannabinoids, which are thought to modulate pain through activation of cannabinoid receptor pathways. The drug was developed by Vernalis and later by Neuritek Therapeutics. Clinical studies demonstrated that V158866 was well tolerated in healthy volunteers and produced dose-dependent increases in plasma endocannabinoid concentrations. However, clinical trials in neuropathic pain did not meet primary efficacy endpoints, leading to discontinuation of its development for this indication[1][2][3][4][5][6][7].