Synthesis and anticonvulsant studies of N-Benzyl-3-[(Chlorophenyl) Amino] propanamides

Abstract

Isomeric N-Benzyl-3-[(chlorophenyl)amino]propanamides were prepared through an uncatalysed amine exchange reaction with benzylamine. The structures of these compounds were established through various spectroscopic techniques. The compounds were screened in mice against maximal electroshock (MES) and subcutaneous pentylene tetrazole (scPTZ) seizure test models as well as the righting reflex test for neurological deficit in mice. The isomers of N-Benzyl-3-[(chlorophenyl)amino] propanamide were found to be active both in the MES and scPTZ tests. The ortho and para isomers were found to be more potent than the standard drug (phenytoin) in the MES test, while all the 3 isomeric benzylated products were found to be far more potent than valproate in both the MES and the scPTZ tests with favourable therapeutic indices signifying their great potential for use against generalized seizures. Acute toxicity studies revealed that N-Benzyl-3-[(chlorophenyl)amino]propanamides are relatively safe.

Keywords: Epilepsy, anticonvulsants, N-Benzyl-3-[(chlorophenyl)amino]propanamide