Investigating itch sensation from simultaneous application of itch-inducing substances

Repetitive Applications of Pruritogens and Effects of a Cutaneous-induced Pain Stimulation on Nonhistaminergic Itch Perception

Not applicable Interventional Aalborg University · NCT06328530

This study is testing if using two itch-causing substances at the same time makes people feel itchier than using just one, and it's for healthy adults aged 18 to 60.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment24 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorAalborg University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Aalborg)
Trial IDNCT06328530 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This experiment aims to develop a new model for understanding itch sensation by examining the effects of applying two itch-inducing substances, cowhage and histamine, at the same time. The hypothesis is that simultaneous applications will produce a stronger itch sensation compared to a single application. The study will involve healthy participants aged 18-60 who will undergo tests to measure their itch response to these pruritogens. The goal is to better mimic clinical conditions of chronic itch and evaluate the spatial summation effect on itch sensation.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy men and women aged 18-60 who can speak and understand English.

Not a fit: Patients with skin diseases, neurological or immunological disorders, or those currently using medications that affect itch sensation may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for chronic itch conditions.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of spatial summation in itch sensation is novel, similar studies have explored itch mechanisms, but this specific methodology is less tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Healthy men and women
* 18-60 years
* Speak and understand English

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnancy or lactation
* Drug addiction defined as any use of cannabis, opioids, or other addictive drugs
* Previous or current history of neurological (e.g. neuropathy), immunological (e.g. asthma, immune deficiencies, arthritis) musculoskeletal (e.g. muscular pain in the upper extremities,), cardiac disorder, or mental illnesses that may affect the results
* Lack of ability to cooperate
* Current use of medications that may affect the trial such as antihistamines, antipsychotics, and pain killers, as well as systemic or topical steroids
* Skin diseases (e.g. atopic dermatitis, pruritus nodularis, eczema, psoriasis)
* Moles, scars, or tattoos in the area to be treated or tested.
* Consumption of alcohol or painkillers 24 hours before the study days and between these
* Acute or chronic pain
* Participation in other trials within one week of study entry (four weeks in the case of pharmaceutical trials)

Where this trial is running

Aalborg

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions HistamineCowhage
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.