New 2,3-dihydro-5-oxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuranes 2-(RS)-substitutes, useful as antioxidizing pharmaceutical products having mucoregolating and anti-ischemic properties

Abstract: Compounds having the formula are usefull as antioxidants or radical-scavengers in pharmaceuticals with mucoregulation and anti-ischemic activity.

Description: It is known that free radicals and oxidizing metabolites formed from oxygen can - under pathological conditions - damage various organs, such as brain, heart, and respiratory tract, and are also implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory processes, tumoral processes, platelet aggregation, and myocardial and cerebral necrosis. The oxidation damage caused by reactive oxygen species can occur at the levels of protein and lipid components of the tissues. The phenomenon known as lipid peroxidation is one of the major causes of cellular damage and can be effectively inhibited by anti-oxidizing and radical-scavenging substances, which can therefore actually stop the destruction of the cellular membranes. At the level of protein components, free oxygen radicals deactivate the alpha-1-protease inhibitor and thus contribute to the genesis of pulmonary emphysema and to the amplification of respiratory-tract inflammatory processes. As concerns the central nervous system, oxygen radicals are important mediators of the tissue damage that occur during the reperfusion following cerebral ischemia. As concerns myocardial ischemia, free oxygen radicals contribute to the cause of myocardial damage both during ischemia and during post-ischemia reperfusion. Antioxidizing and radical-scavenging substances neutralize reactive oxygen species and can therefore be useful therapeutic agents for the treatment of pulmonary emphysema and inflammatory processes involving the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, as well as for treating the after-effects of cerebral or cardiac infarction. A few of the substances synthesized for achieving this end which are claimed in this invention have been shown to be not only very active as antioxidants and radical scavengers (particularly in vivo), but have also been seen to have outstanding mucolytic and mucoregulating properties, which permit bringing the pathological tracheobronchial mucus back to the physiological condition, in particular as regards the regulation of the production, composition and rheology of mucus. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The invention herein described concerns a substance having a 2,3-dihydrobenzofuran structure with the following formula (I): or their pharmaceutically acceptable salts, in which: R is a hydrogen; a linear or branched alkyl with 1-6 carbon atoms; a benzyl; a -COR₂ aliphatic acyl, where R₂ is a linear or branched alkyl up to 6 carbon atoms; a hemiacyl of a bicarboxylic acid, in particular hemisuccinoyl; R₁ is a hydrogen; an hydroxyl; a -OCOR₃ acyloxy group, where R₃ is a lower alkyl, in particular methyl; a sulphydrylic group; a -SR₄ thioether, where R₄ is a heterocyclic residue, in particular 2-thiazolinyl and 2-pyrimidinyl; a -SCOR₃ acyltio group, where R₃ is as described before; a primary amine group; a -NR₅R₆ dialkylamine radical, where R₅ and R₆ are either lower alkyls or form a saturated heterocyclic ring, in particular piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine and N-methylpiperazine; a -NHCOR₇ secondary amide, where R₇ is a lower alkyl or an aryl residue, in particular methyl and 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl; a halogen, in particular bromine and iodine. The object of this invention also concerns the process for the preparation of the above-described new compounds. These are synthesized according to one of the two methods A and B, respectively described in diagrams 1 and 2. The starting materials used in both cases are 2-(RS)-(2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuranyl) acetic acid or its methyl ester. These compounds are described and claimed in Italian patent application No. 21603 A/88, dated 8/1/1988. The synthetic method A includes as first step the alkylation of the phenolic hydroxyl in 5 position of the aforesaid acid (or its methyl ester) by treating it with dialkyl sulfate or, in the case of benzylation, with a benzyl halide. On the other hand, the introduction of a branched alkyl is obtained by treating methyl 2-(RS)-(2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuranyl) acetate with the appropriate alcohol (for example, isopropanol), triphenylphosphine and dialkyl azodicarboxylate. The resulting aryl ether is then treated with lithium aluminum hydride (or some other appropriate compounds reducing carboxylic group), such as diisobutyl aluminum hydride or boron hydride)) in solution with an inert organic solvent such as tetrahydrofurane or diethyl ether, to give 2-(RS)-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-alkoxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran (compound II). At this point, an appropriate substitution or functionalization reaction on the hydroxyl group can be performed, whereby the following compounds are obtained: A1) esters III, obtained by treating alcohol of formula II with the appropriate anhydride of the acid (or the corresponding acid chloride), under the usual alcohol acylation conditions; A2) primary amines IV, obtained by treating the same alcohol II with phthalimide, triphenylphosphine, and dialkyl azodicarboxylate, followed - after isolation of the substituted N-substituted phthalimide - by reaction with hydrazine hydrate to afford the primary amine; A3) secondary amides V, obtained by treating the amines referenced in par. A2 with an activated derivative of the appropriate R₇COOH carboxylic acid, where R₇ is as previously described, in an aprotic organic solvent such as chloroform, and optionally in the presence of an organic base such as triethylamine; A4) 2-(RS)-ethyl-2,3-dihyro-5-alcoxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofurans VI, obtained by treating alcohol II with p-toluensulfonyl chloride (or other sulfonyl chlorides such as trifluoromethansulfonyl chloride) under the usual conditions employed for obtaining sulfonates, and - after having isolated the sulfonic ester - by reacting this with a reducing agent such as lithium aluminum hydride in an inert organic solvent such as tetrahydrofuran; A5) halides VII, obtained by reacting compound II with halogen, triphenylphosphine and a nitrogen heterocyclic base such as imidazole in a toluene solution or some other analogous solvent, or by treating the same alcohol II with an appropriate halogenating agent such as thionyl chloride or phosphorus tribromide; A6) tertiary amines VIII (in which R₅ and R₆ are as previously described), obtained from halide VII referenced in par. A5 by treating it with the appropriate secondary amine HNR₅R₆; A7) thioeters IX, obtained by treating halide VII, referenced in par. A5, with the appropriate thiol R₄SH, where R₄ is as previously described, in the presence of non-nucleophilic bases such as 1,8-diazabicyclo-[5,4,0]undec-7-ene in an inert solvent such as benzene. When R is a benzyl, the above-described A1, A2, A3, A4 and A6 compounds can be de-protected by catalytic hydrogenation, thus producing phenols X which could also be acylated in the usual manner, thus finally obtaining compounds I where R is an acyl or hemiacyl of bicarboxylic acid. The second series of compounds claimed with this invention is prepared by following synthetic method B (Diagram 2). In that instance, reduction of the carboxylic group is obtained by directly treating 2-(RS)-(2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuranyl) acetic acid (IRFI OO5) with lithium aluminum hydride (or suitable reducing agent such as diisobutyl aluminum hydride or boron hydride in solution with an inert organic solvent such as tetrahydrofurane or diethyl ether, thus obtaining the compound 2-(RS)-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2,3-dihyro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran (IRFI 039, XI), the key intermediate for the subsequent functionalization of the molecule. In fact, this compound gives: B1) thioesters XII, obtained by reaction with triphenylphosphine, dialkyl azodicarboxylate and the appropriate thioacid in an inert solvent such as tetrahydrofurane; the thiol of formula XII can also be obtained by alkaline hydrolysis in mild conditions (typically by the action of diluted ammonia); B2) iodide XII (IRFI 066), obtained by treating compound XI with iodine, triphenylphosphine, and a nitrogen heterocyclic base such as imidazole in a toluene solution or another analogous solvent; B3) diacylderivates of formula XV, obtained by treating the alcohol of formula XI with the suitable chloride or anhydride of the acid under standard esterification conditions. The products described in B1 and B2 can be subsequently acylated to phenolic hydroxyl in 5 position, thus obtaining compounds of formula XVI and XVII, respectively. In particular, by treating compound XII - where R₃ = CH₃ (IRFI 061) - with succinic anhydride in a pyridine solution at the pyridine reflux temperature in an inert atmosphere, the 5-[2-(RS)-(2-acetylthioethyl)-2,3-dihydro-4, 6, 7-trimethylbenzofuranyl] hemisuccinate (IRFI 042, compound I, where R = HO₂CCH₂CH₂CO- and R₁ = -SCOCH₃) is obtained, which has been shown to have outstanding mucoregulating properties, as well as considerable radical-scavenging activity in vivo. The invention also concerns the use of the formula I substances as mucolytic and mucoregulating pharmaceuticals. For example, Table I shows the effects on mucoproduction in mice by compounds: 2-(RS)-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran [IRFI 039], 5-[2-(RS)-(2-acetylthioethyl)-2,3-dihydro-4,6,7-trimethyl-5-benzofuranyl] hemisuccinate [IRFI 042], 2-(RS)-(2-acetylthioethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran [IRFI O61] and 2-(RS)-(2-iodoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran [IRFI 066]. Table II shows the effects of compounds IRFI 039 and IRFI 042 on mucoproduction in rabbits. Table III shows the effects of compound IRFI 042 on the ciliar motility of the tracheo-bronchial hepitelium in pidgeons. Table IV shows the results relative to the dosage of lipo-peroxides in rat liver homogenate after the administration of compound IRFI 042 and carbon tetrachloride intoxication. Table V shows the effects of compound IRFI 042 on gastroprotection after lesions induced by ethanol. TABLE I : MUCOPRODUCTION IN MICE The method described by Graziani et al. (Il Farmaco, Ed. Pr. 36 , 167, 1981) was followed with appropriate modifications. Male albino CD 1 (Charles River) mice weighing between 22 and 24 g. were used. phenol Red was injected intraperitoneally and dosed in the bronchial liquid, and the values obtained with the treated animals were compared with those obtained with the control animals. The pharmaceuticals were administered orally (gastric probe). Several of the best known mucolytic/mucoregulating agents used in human therapy were chosen as reference drugs. Oral administration (n = 10) SUBSTANCE DE₅₀(mg/kg) 95% FIDUCIAL LIMITS IRFI 039 80.426 66.667 - 94.184 IRFI 042 65.696 56.444 - 74.948 IRFI 061 203.148 125.670 - 280.626 IRFI 066 154.215 131.568 - 176.863 N-ACETYLCYSTEINE 89.567 84.558 - 94.575 BROMHEXINE 177.062 170.872 - 183.252 THIOPRONINE 155.754 134.989 - 176.518 TABLE II : MUCOPRODUCTION IN RABBITS The Scuri et al. method was used (Boll. Chim. Form. 119 , 191, 1980), with male HY (Charles River) rabbits weighing 3-3.5 kg. The drugs were administered intravenously (auricular vein), and the tracheo-bronchial mucus was collected for a period of 4 hours before (basal) and after pharmacological treatment. The reference drugs used were selected from some of the best known mucolytic/mucoregulating agents used in human therapy. Intravenous administration (n = 10). SUBSTANCE DE₅₀(mg/kg) 95% FIDUCIAL LIMITS IRFI 039 4.203 3.780 - 4.672 IRFI 042 1.546 1.524 - 1.567 N-ACETYLCYSTEINE 17.279 16.990 - 17.568 SOBREROL 7.541 7.520 - 7.563 AMBROXOL 6.358 4.197 - 8.518 BROMHEXINE 8.395 8.301 - 8.450 TABLE III : MUCOCILIARY CLEARANCE IN PIDGEONS The study of the ciliar motility of the tracheo-bronchial epithelium was conducted by carrying out the Kubo et al. method (Arzneim. Forsch. 25 , 1028, 1975), appropriately modified. Both male and female white King pidgeons weighing 500-700 g. were used (Morini, S.Paolo d'Enza). After exposing the tracheae of the animals, the tracheal mucosa was evidenced by means of a longitudinal incision. Very fine vegetable-carbon particles were applied to the mucosa and the time required for the particles to travel a fixed distance was measured. After the drug under examination was administered, the distances travelled by the carbon particles was noted every 5 minutes for a total period of one hour. These data were compared to those obtained prior to the treatment. Intravenous administration (n = 3). SUBSTANCE DOSE (mg/kg) % CILIAR MOTL.VAR.(X)+/-ES IRFI 042 31.25 + 15.3 +/- 4.74 N-ACETYLCYSTEINE 62.50 + 35.4 +/- 4.10 AMBROXOL 62.50 + 20.5 +/- 0.52 HOMOCYSTEINE 62.50 + 19.5 +/- 1.79 TABLE IV : ACTIVITY ON LIPOPEROXIDATION The protective action of the tested substances on the toxicity induced by carbon tetrachloride was evidenced by dosing lipoperoxides in rat liver homogenate. These dosages particularly evidenced the antioxidizing/radical-scavenging activity of the molecule under examination. Male Wistar (Charles River) rats weighing 100-200 g. were used. The substances being studied were administered one-half or one hour before intoxication with CCl₄ + liquid paraffin 1:1 (2.5 mg/kg orally administered). The animals were sacrificed 4 hours after intoxication, and their livers removed and homogenized. The lipoperoxides were dosed onto the homogenate using the thiobarbituric acid and malondialdehyde method, which was appropriately modified by us (Mirano et al., J. Chromatogr. 417 , 371, 1987; Ohkawa et al., Anal.Biochem. 95 , 357, 1979; Wong et al., Clin.Chem. 33 , 214, 1987). The percent variation with respect to the animals not treated with the drug was then calculated. Oral administration (n = 5). SUBSTANCE DOSE (mg/kg) % VARIATION IRFI 042 400 - 78 BHT 400 - 48 α-TOCOPHEROL 100 - 74 TABLE V : GASTRIC LESIONS FROM ETHYL ALCOHOL The protective action of the substances under study on gastric lesions induced by ethanol was tested by using the method described by Salim et al. (J.Pharm. Pharmacol. 39 , 553, 1987). Male albino Charles River rats weighing 120-150 gr. were used. The animals were placed in metabolic cages for 48 hours before testing without being fed, after which the drug was administered orally, followed one-half hour later by an oral administration of 40% ethyl alcohol (1 ml/rat), which caused gastric lesions. One hour after the ulcerogenic treatment, the animals were sacrificed, their stomachs removed, and the number of ulcers recorded. The percentage was then calculated between the treated and untreated animals. Oral administration (n = 5). SUBSTANCE DE₅₀ (mg/kg) 95% FIDUCIAL LIMIT IRFI 042 45.352 40.459 - 50.838 BHT 106.026 33.549 - 245.603 α-TOCOPHEROL > 500 Therefore, according to this invention, the compounds of formula I can be used as mucoregulating drugs for treating all respiratory tract illnesses that are characterized by an increase in the secretion consistency and quantity (bronchitis, bronchiolitis, chronic bronchitis, bronchiolectasis and complications arising from asthma and pulmonary emphysema, pharyngo-pharyngitis and acute and chronic tracheitis, rhinitis and sinusitis) with the presence of phlogosis of the respiratory tract mucosa. Therapeutic administration of the formula I compounds can be done orally, topically, parenterally, and by inhalation or through the rectum in formulations containing standard, non-toxic pharmaceutical excipients. The term "parenterally" herein used refers to administration by subcutaneous, intravenous, intramuscular or intrasternal injection or technical infusions. The pharmaceutical compositions containing the active principles can be in any form which is suitable for oral administration, such as pills, water or oil suspensions, dispersable powders or granules, hard or soft capsules, syrups or elixirs. The compositions used for oral administration can contain one or more sweeteners or various agents for providing colour and aroma, as well as preservatives, all of which for the purpose of rendering the pharmaceutical composition more appealing to the eye and the palate. The formulations for oral administration include pills in which the active principle is mixed with non-toxic, pharmaceutically-acceptable excipients. The excipients can be inert diluents, such as calcium carbonate, sodium carbonate, lactose, calcium phosphate or sodium phosphate, granulating or disintegrating agents such as wheat starch or alginic acid; bonding agents such as starch, gelatine; lubricating agents such as magnesium stearate, stearic acid or talcum. The pills can be either non-coated or coated by means of known techniques to slow the rate at which the substance is disintegrated and absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, thus providing longer-lasting action. The aqueous suspensions generally contain a mixture of the active principles and appropriate excipients. The excipients can be suspending agents, such as sodium carboxymethylcellulose, methylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, sodium alginate, polyvinylpyrrolidone; and dispersing or wetting agents. Furthermore, they can also contain one or more preservatives, such as ethyl or n-propyl p-hydroxybenzoate; one or more colouring agents; one or more aromatizing agents; and one or more sweetening agents. The oily suspensions can be formulated by suspending the active principle in a vegetable or mineral oil. These suspensions can contain sweetening or aromatizing agents to make the preparation more pleasant-tasting. The dispersable powders and granules that are suitable for preparing an aqueous suspension by adding water contain a mixture of the active principle with a dispersing or wetting agent, a suspending agent, and one or more preserving agents. The pharmaceutical compositions of this invention can also be in the water-oil emulsion form. The oily phase can be substituted by a vegetable or mineral oil. The emulsifying agents can be natural rubbers such as acacia rubber, or natural phosphatides such as lecitine or natural or synthetic fatty acid esters. The syrups and elixirs can be formulated with sweetening agents such as glycerol, sorbitol or saccharose. The pharmaceutical compositions can be in the form of sterile, injectable aqueous or oily suspensions, which can be formulated using known techniques and dispersing or wetting agents, as well as known suspending agents. The sterile, injectable preparations can be sterile, injectable solutions or suspensions in a non-toxic solvent or diluent which is suitable for parenteral use. The formula I compounds can also be rectally administered in the form of suppositories. These compositions can be prepared by mixing the active principle with a suitable non-irritating excipient which is in the solid state at room temperature but becomes a liquid at rectal temperature. It thus melts inside the rectum and releases the drug. Polyethylenglycols and cocoa butter are suitable for making these suppositories. Various Creams, unguents, gelatins, solutions, suspensions and other appropriate formulations containing the mucolytic compound can be prepared for topical use. The following examples illustrate the invention without, however, imposing limitations. EXAMPLE 1 2-(RS)-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran (IRFI 072) A solution of methyl 2-(RS)-(2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuranyl) acetate (38.5 g., see Italian Patent Application No. 21603 A/88) in 350 ml of dimethylformamide is added to 42.5 g. of potassium carbonate and 35.5 ml of benzyl chloride. The mixture is stirred under nitrogen at room temperature for 48 hours. When the reaction is complete, water is added and extraction with ethyl acetate is performed. The extracts are washed with water, dried and evaporated under vacuum. The raw residue is purified by column chromatography (SiO₂), obtaining 37.7 g. of a white solid. IR (KBr): 1731 cm⁻¹ (νCOOCH₃) ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃):δ 7.5-7.2 (5H,m), 5.3-4.8 (1H,m), 4.7 (2H,s), 3.7. (3H,s), 3.3-2.6 (4H,m), 2.2 (6H,s), 2.1 (3H,s). The obtained methyl 2-(RS)-(2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuranyl) acetate is solubilized in 250 ml of anhydrous tetrahyrofurane and added to a suspension of 23 g. of lithium aluminum hydride in 90 ml of anhydrous tetrahydrofurane. The mixture is then stirred in an inert atmosphere for 30 minutes, after which the excess of hydride is destroyed by gradually adding 1 N hydrochloric acid. The inorganic hydroxides are then filtered out and suspended in ethyl ether for about 15 minutes, after which the filtrates are put together, dried and evaporated under vacuum. 33.5 g. of raw product is obtained and that is crystallized from hexane. m.p. 94-6°C; IR (KBr): 3342 cm⁻¹ (ν OH); ¹H-NMR (CCl₄): δ 7.5-7.2 (5H,m), 5.1-4.6 (1H,m), 4.7 (2H,s), 3.8 (2H,t), 3.3-2.6 (2H,m), 2.5 (1H,s), 2.15 (6H,s), 2.1 (3H,s), 2.0-1.8 (2H,m). Elementary analysis for C₂₀H₂₄O₃ (M.W. 312.41): % C % H Calc. 76.89 7.74 Found 77.22 7.82 EXAMPLE 2 2-(RS)-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2,3 dihydro-5-methoxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran 4.0 gr. of 2-(RS)-(2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuranyl) acetic acid are solubilized in 16 ml of ethyl alcohol. Various portions of 1.8 ml of dimethyl sulfate and a solution of 1.5 g. of sodium hydroxide in 4.8 ml of water are alternatively added to the mixture. Finally, alkaline treatment is performed by a solution of 208 mg of sodium hydroxide in 1.6 ml of water. The mixture is kept at reflux in an inert atmosphere for 4 hours. After cooling, the solution is acidified and extraction is performed. The organic phase is finally dried and evaporated. 5.0 g. of raw residue is obtained that is purified by chromatography (SiO₂). 2-(RS)-(2,3-dihydro-5-methoxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuranyl) acetic acid thus obtained is reduced to alcohol by following the same procedure described in example 1, which gives a white solid. m.p. 74-76°C; IR (KBr): 3382 (νOH), 1239 cm⁻¹ (νC-O-C); ¹H-NMR (CCl₄): δ 5.0-4.5 (1H,m), 4.4 (1H,s), 3.7 (2H,t), 3.5 (3H,s), 3.3-2.4 (2H,m), 2.05 (6H,s), 2.0 (3H,s), 2.0-1.8 (2H,m). Elementary analysis for C₁₄H₂₀O₃ (Molecular Weight 236.31) % C % H Calc. 71.16 8.53 Found 71.06 8.65 EXAMPLE 3 2-(RS)-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-isopropyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran . A solution of 5.9 ml of diisopropyl azodicarboxylate in 2 ml of dichloromethane is added, dropwise, to a mixture of 5.0 g. of methyl 2-(RS)-(2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuranyl) acetate, 2.3 ml of isopropanol and 7.8 g. of triphenylphosphine in 80 ml of dichloromethane. The mixture is stirred overnight in a nitrogen atmosphere at room temperature. The solvent is evaporated, and the residue is purified by column (SiO₂) to obtain 4.2 g. of methyl 2-(RS)-(2,3-dihydro-5-isopropyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuranyl) acetate. The ester thus obtained is reduced to alcohol by using the procedure described in example 1. 3.2 g. of product are obtained. m.p. 80-2°C; IR(KBr): 3368 cm⁻¹ (νOH); ¹H-NMR (CCl₄): δ 5.0-4.5 (1H,m), 4.4 (1H,s), 4.1-3.4 (3H,m), 3.3-2.5 (2H,m), 2.1 (6H,s), 2.0 (3H,s), 2.0-1.8 (2H,m), 1.3 (6H,d). Elementary analysis for C₁₆H₂₄O₃ (Molecular weight 264.36): % C % H Calc. 72.69 9.15 Found 72.62 9.14 EXAMPLE 4 2-(RS)-(2-acetoxyethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran A solution of 150 mg of 2-(RS)-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofurane in 0.6 ml of pyridine is treated with 0,3 ml of acetic anydride. The mixture is stirred in nitrogen atmosphere at room temperature for 6 hours. After acidifying with hydrochloric acid, the suspension is extracted with ethyl ether then the extracts are dried and evaporated 165 mg of a white crystalline solid are obtained. m.p. 80-82°C; IR(KBr): 1742 cm⁻¹ (νAcO); ¹H-NMR (CCl₄): δ 7.4-7.1 (5H,m), 5.0-4.6 (1H,m), 4.6 (2H,s), 4.2 (2H,t), 3.4-2.6 (2H,m), 2.2 (3H,s), 2.1 (3H,s), 2.0 (6H,s), 2.0-1.8 (2H,m). Elementary analysis for C₂₂H₂₆O₄ (Molecular Weight 354.45): % C % H Calc. 74.55 7.39 Found 74.51 7.43 EXAMPLE 5 2-(RS)-(2-aminoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran hydrochloride 5.7 ml of diisopropyl azodicarboxylate is added dropwise to a mixture of 6.0 g. of 2-(RS)-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran at 0°C, 7.6 g of triphenylphosphine and 3.1 g of phthalimide in 35 ml of anhydrous tetrahydrofurane. After these addtions, the mixture is brought to room temperature and stirred for 2 hours. After the solvent has been evaporated, the residue is purified with column chromatography (SiO₂), which produces 8.0 g. of N-[2-(2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethyl-2-benzofuranyl)ethyl] phthalimide. m.p. 108-10°C: IR(KBr): 1772, 1716 cm⁻¹ (νO=CNC=O). The phthalimide thus obtained is solubilized in a mixture of 50 ml of tetrahydrofurane and 20 ml of absolute ethanol. 3.2 ml of hydrated hydrazine are added dropwise and the mixture is kept under reflux with stirring for 2 hours. After the mixture has been brought to room temperature, the formed phthalhydrazine is filtered out, and the filtrate is concentrated to a volume of about 20 ml. The additional phthalhydrazine which forms is filtered out. After the solvent is evaporated from the filtrate, the residue is treated with ethyl ether saturated with gaseous HCl to obtain the precipitatation of the product as hydrochloride. The precipitate is filtered under vacuum, which gives 4.0 g of a white solid. m.p. 192-3°C; IR (KBr): 3032 cm⁻¹ (νNH₃+); ¹H-NMR (CD₃OD): δ 7.5-7.2 (5H,m), 4.7 (2H,s), 3.4-2.7 (4H,m), 2.4-2.2 (2H,m), 2.2 (6H,s), 2.1 (3H,s). Elementary analysis for C₂₀H₂₆ClNO₂ (Molecular Weight 347.88): % C % H % N Calc. 69.05 7.53 4.03 Found 69.00 7.43 4.25 EXAMPLE 6 N-[2-(2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethyl-2-(RS)-benzofuranyl)ethyl]acetamide The 2-(RS)-(2-aminoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran is acetylated with the same procedure described in example 4. A white solid. is obtained m.p. 138-9°C; IR(KBr): 3285 (νNH), 1648 cm⁻¹ (νNHCO); ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 7.5-7.2 (5H,m), 6.8 (1H,t), 5.1-4.7 (1H,m), 4.7 (2H,s), 3.8-3.5 (2H,m), 3.3-2.8 (2H,m), 2.2 (6H,s), 2.1 (3H,s), 2.0-1.8 (2H, m), 1.8 (3H,s). Elementary analysis for C₂₂H₂₇NO₃ (Molecular Weight 353.46): % C % H % N Calc. 74.76 7.70 3.96 Found 74.83 7.60 3.91 EXAMPLE 7 N-[2-(2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethyl-2-(RS)-benzofuranyl) ethyl]-3,4,5-trimethoxybenzamide A solution of 2.86 g of 3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoyl chloride in 35 ml of chloroform is slowly added to a 3.85 g solution of 2-(RS)-(2-aminoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran in 35 ml of chloroform and 2.0 ml of triethylamine. After stirring for one hour at room temperature, 1M hydrochloric acid is added and the organic layer is separated and washed in a sodium bicarbonate solution, dried and evaporated. 4.42 g of - a white solid are obtained, that is purified by crystallization from ethanol / ethyl acetate. m.p. 171-3°C; IR(KBr): 3271 (νN-H), 1684, 1545 cm⁻¹ (νCONH); ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 7.4-7.2 (5H,m), 7.0 (2H,s), 6.8 (1H,t), 5.1-4.7 (1H,m), 4.7 (2H,s), 3.8 (9H,s), 3.8-3.4 (2H,m), 3.2-2.7 (2H,m), 2.2 (6H,s), 2.1 (3H,s), 2.1-1.8 (2H,m). Elementary analysis for C₃₀H₃₅NO₆ (Molecular Weight 505.61): % C % H % N Calc. 71.27 6.98 2.77 Found 71.11 6.90 2.73 EXAMPLE 8 2-(RS)-ethyl-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran 105 mg of p-toluensulfonyl chloride is added to a solution of 156 mg of 2-(RS)-(2-hydroxyethyl-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran in 0.5 ml of pyridine cooled to 0°C. The reaction mixture is stirred for 3 hours, then it is acidified and extracted. The organic extracts are dried and evaporated, thus giving 185 mg of raw product, which is then purified by chromatography (SiO₂). 153 mg of 2[2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethyl-2-(RS)benzofuranyl]ethyl p-toluensulfonate are obtained. IR (KBr): 1359, 1177 cm⁻¹ (νSO₂). The product thus obtained is then solubilized in 2 ml of dry tetrahydrofurane and added to a suspension of 45 mg of lithium aluminum hydride in 5 ml of dry tetrahydrofurane. The reaction mixture is stirred in an inert atmosphere for 30 minutes. The reaction work-up is carried out by the same procedure described in example 1. 82 mg of a white solid are obtained. m.p. 65-7°C: IR (KBr): 1595 (νC-C), 1237 cm⁻¹ (νC-O-C); ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 7.5-7.1 (5H,m), 4.8-4.4 (1H,m), 4.7 (2H,s), 3.3-2.5 (2H,m), 2.2 (6H,s), 2.1 (3H,s), 1.9-1.5 (2H,m), 1.0-(3H,t). Elementary analysis for C₂₀H₂₄O₂ (Molecular Weight 296.41): % C % H Calc. 81.04 8.16 Found 80.89 8.09 EXAMPLE 9 2-(RS)-(2-bromoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran A solution of 0.8 ml of bromine in 15 ml of toluene is added dropwise to a solution of 4.0 g of 2-(RS)-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4, 6, 7-trimethylbenzofuran, 5.1 g of triphenylphosphine and 1.3 g of imidazole in 70 ml of toluene. The mixture is stirred at room temperature for 15 minutes, then the imidazole*HBr is filtered out and the filtrate is evaporated. The residue is treated with ethyl ether to obtain the precipitation of triphenylphosphine oxide, which is filtered out. After the residue has been evaporated, the obtained 7.7 g of raw material is purified by means of column chromatography (SiO₂), which affords 4.0 g. of a yellow solid. m.p. 66-68°C; IR(KBr): 1549 (νC-C), 1075 cm⁻¹ (νC-O-C); ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 7.4-7.1 (5H,m), 5.0-4.5 (1H,m), 4.6 (2H,s), 3.5 (2H,t), 3.3-2.6 (2H,m), 2.3-2.1 (2H,m), 2.05 (9H,s). Elementary analysis for C₂₀H₂₃BrO₂ (Molecular Weight 375.30): % C % H Calc. 64.01 6.18 Found 64.36 6.47 EXAMPLE 10 2-(RS)-(2-diethylaminoethyl-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran hydrochloride A solution of 122 mg of 2-(RS)-(2-bromoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran in 1 ml of diethylamine is refluxed for 6 hours. After the excess diethylamine has been evaporated, the residue is treated with a solution of sodium bicarbonate and extracted with ethyl acetate. The extracts are washed with water, dried and evaporated. The residue is treated with ethyl ether saturated with hydrogen chloride, which precipitates the product as hydrochloride. 100 mg of a white solid are obtained. m.p. 164-66°C; IR (KBr): 2646, 2442 (νNH+), 1079 cm⁻¹ (ν C-O-C); ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 7.5-7.2 (5H,m), 5.1-4.7 (1H,m), 4.7 (2H,s), 3.5-2.7 (8H,m), 2.5-2.3 (2H,m), 2.2 (6H,s), 2.1 (3H,s), 1.4 (6H,t). Elementary analysis for C₂₄H₃₄ClNO₂ (Molecular Weight 403.99). % C % H % N Calc. 71.35 8.48 3.47 Found 71.04 8.16 3.18 EXAMPLE 11 2-(RS)-[2-(4-morpholinyl)ethyl]-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran hydrochloride 6.37 g. of 2-(RS)-(2-bromoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran are solubilized in 100 ml of warm absolute ethanol. A solution of 3.2 ml of morpholine in 7 ml of absolute ethanol are then added, dropwise. The mixture is refluxed under stirring for 10 hours. After the solvent has evaporated, the residue is treated with 30 ml of saturated sodium bicarbonate solution. Ethyl ether is used to extract, and the extracts are washed twice with water, dried and evaporated. Ethyl ether saturated with HCl is used to treat the residue obtaining the precipitation of the hydrochloride of the product that is then filtered under vacuum to obtain 5.05 g of a white solid. m.p. 196-8°C; IR(KBr): 2600 cm⁻¹ (νNH+); ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 7.5-7.2 (5H,s), 5.1-4.5 (1H,m), 4.7 (2H,s), 4.3-4.8 (4H,m), 3.5-2.6 (8H,m), 2.4-2.2 (2H,m), 2.2 (6H,s), 2.1 (3H,s). Elementary analysis for C₂₄H₃₂ClNO₃ (Molecular Weight 417.97): % C % H % N Calc. 68.97 7.72 3.35 Found 68.49 7.63 3.09 EXAMPLE 12 2-(RS)-[2-(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)ethyl]-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran 2.5 g of 2-(RS)-(2-bromoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6, 7-trimethylbenzofuran are solubilized in 80 ml of warm absolute ethanol. Then 1.7 ml of 1-methylpiperazine is added dropwise and the solution stirred with reflux for 8 hours. After the solvent has evaporated, the residue is treated with 20 ml of saturated sodium bicarbonate solution and extraction is made with ethyl ether. The organic extracts are washed twice with water, then dried and evaporated. After purification by chromatography (SiO₂) of the raw reaction material, 2.2 g of a a white solid are obtained. m.p. 68-71°C; IR(KBr): 1456 cm⁻¹ (δ s CH₂); ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 7.5-7.2 (5H,m), 5.1-4.5 (1H,m), 4.7 (2H,s), 3.4-2.7 (2H,m), 2.7-2.3 (10H,m), 2.25 (3H,s), 2.15 (6H,s), 2.1 (3H,s), 2.0-1.8 (2H,m). Elementary analysis for C₂₅H₃₄N₂O₂ (Molecular Weight 394.56): % C % H % N Calc. 76.10 8.69 7.10 Found 75.90 8.55 6.90 EXAMPLE 13 2-[2,3-dihydro-5-methoxy-4,6.7-trimethyl-2-(RS)-benzofuranyl] ethyl-2-thio-2-thiazoline hydrochloride (IRFI 074) 1.74 ml of 1,8-diazabicyclo [5,4.0] undec-7-ene(1,5-5) (DBU) and 2.91 g. of 2-(RS)-(2-bromoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-methoxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran are added successively to a solution of 1.28 g of 2-mercapto-2-thiazoline in 30 ml of benzene. The mixture is stirred for 2 hours at room temperature. After filtering the DBU*HBr, the filtrate is evaporated. The raw residue is purified by chromatography (SiO₂); 2.83 g of an oil is obtained which is salified by treating with HCl in ether. After filtration of the precipitate under vacuum 2,72 g of a product is obtained. m.p. 169-71°C; IR(KBr): 1570 (νC-C), 1084 cm⁻¹ (νC-O-C); ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 5.1-4.7 (1H,m), 4.4 (2H,t), 3.9-4.4 (4H,m), 3.6 (3H,s), 3.2-2.5 (2H,m), 2.3-2.1 (2H,m), 2.1 (6H,s), 2.0 (3H,s). Elementary analysis for C₁₇H₂₄C1NO₂S₂ (Molecular Weight): % C % H % N Calc. 62.03 7.57 3.29 Found 61.85 7.93 3.17 EXAMPLE 14 2-[(2,3-dihydro-5-methoxy-4,6,7-trimethyl-2-(RS)-benzofuranyl) ethylthio]-2-pyrimidine 0.06 ml of DBU and a solution of 120 mg of 2-(RS)-(2-bromoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-methoxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran are successively added, to a solution of 40 mg of 2-mercaptopyrimidine in 1 ml of benzene. After stirring for 2 hours at room temperature, the DBU*HBr is filtered out and the filtrate is washed with water, dried and evaporated. The residue is purified by chromatography (SiO₂), and 112 mg of clear oil is obtained. IR (liquid film): 1080 cm⁻¹ (νC-O-C); ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 8.5 (2H,d), 6.9 (1H,t), 5.1-4.6 (1H,m), 3.8 (3H,s), 3.3 (2H,t), 3.2-2.6 (2H,m), 2.1 (6H,s), 2.05 (3H,s), 2.0-1.8 (2H,m). Elementary analysis for C₁₈H₂₂N₂O₂S (Molecular Weight 330.45). % C % H % N Calc. 65.42 6.71 8.48 Found 65.35 6.67 8.45 EXAMPLE 15 2-(RS)-(2-acetoxyethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,5,7-trimethylbenzofuran 150 mg of 5% palladium-on-carbon is added to a solution of 1.8 g. of 2-(RS)-(2-acetoxyethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethyl -benzofuran in 25 ml of absolute ethanol. The solution is kept under a hydrogen pressure of 50 psi for one hour at room temperature. After filtration of the catalyst on Celite, the solvent is evaporated, leaving 1.3 g of a white solid. m.p. 90-2°C; (IR) (KBr) 3389 (νOH), 1738 cm⁻¹ (νCOCH₃); ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃); δ 5.1-4.6 (1H,m), 4.2 (2H,t), 3.3-2.7 (2H,m) 2.2 (3H,s), 2.05 (6H,s), 2.0 (3H,s), 2.0-1.8 (2H,m). Elementary analysis for C₁₅H₂₀O₄ (Molecular Weight 264.32): % C % H Calc. 68.16 7.63 Found 68.12 7.65 EXAMPLE 16 2-(RS)-(2-aminoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran hydrochloride The de-benzylation of 2-(RS)-(2-aminoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran hydrochloride is performed with the same process as described in example 15. A white solid is obtained. m.p. 198-99°C; IR (KBr): 3410 (νOH), 3059 cm⁻¹ (νNH₃+); ¹H-NMR (D₂O): δ 3.4-2.7 (4H,m), 2.3-2.1 (2H,m), 2.1 (6H,s), 2.0 (3H,s). Elementary analysis for C₁₃H₂₀ClNO₂ (Molecular Weight 257.76): % C % H % N Calc. 60.58 7.82 5.43 Found 60.32 7.91 5.39 EXAMPLE 17 N-[2-(2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethyl-2-(RS)-benzofuranyl)ethyl]acetamide The debenzylation of N-[2-(2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethyl-2-(RS)-benzofuranyl) ethyl]acetamide is performed with the same process as described in example 15. A white solid is obtained. m.p. 142-3°C; IR (KBr) 3387 (νOH), 1661 cm⁻¹ (ν NHCO); ¹H-NMR (CD₃OD): δ 3.5-2.8 (4H,m), 2.1 (6H,s), 2.05 (3H,s), 2.0-1.8 (2H,m), 1.8 (3H,s). Elementary analysis for C₁₅H₂₁NO₃ (Molecular Weight 263.34): % C % H % N Calc. 68.41 8.04 5.32 Found 68.20 8.15 5.29 EXAMPLE 18 N-[2-(2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethyl-2-(RS)-benzofuranyl) ethyl]-3,4,5-trimethoxybenzamide The debenzylation of N-[2-(2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethyl-2-(RS)-benzofuranyl) ethyl]-3,4,5-trimethoxybenzamide is performed by following the procedure given in example 15. A white solid is obtained. m.p. 172-4°C; IR (KBr): 3399 (ν OH), 1679 cm⁻¹ (νCONH); ¹H-NMR (CD₃OD): δ 7.0 (2H,s), 3.8 (9H,s), 3.8-3.4 (2H,m), 3.3-2.7 (2H,m), 2.2 (6H,s), 2.1 (2H,m), 2.05 (3H,s). Elementary analysis for C₂₃H₂₉NO₆ (Molecular Weight 415.49): % C % H % N Calc. 66.49 7.03 3.37 Found 66.37 7.09 3.28 EXAMPLE 19 2-(RS)-ethyl-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran The debenzylation of 2-(RS)-ethyl-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran is carried out by following the procedure given in example 15. A white solid is obtained. p.m. 73-75°C; IR (KBr): 3378 cm⁻¹ (νOH); ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 4.9-4.5 (1H,m), 4.2 (1H,s), 3.3-2.7 (2H,m), 2.1 (6H,s), 2.0 (3H,s), 1.8-1.5 (2H,m), 1.1 (3H,t). Elementary analysis for C₁₃H₁₈O₂ (Molecular Weight 206.28): % C % H Calc. 75.69 8.79 Found 75.66 8.72 EXAMPLE 20 2-(RS)-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran hydrochloride The debenzylation of 2-(RS)-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran hydrochloride is performed by carrying out the procedure given in example 15. A white solid is obtained. m.p. 171-3°C; IR (KBr): 3406 (νOH), 2651, 2438 cm⁻¹ (νNH+); ¹H-NMR (CD₃OD): δ 3.5-2.7 (8H,m), 2.5-2.2 (2H,m), 2.1 (6H,s), 2.0 (3H,s), 1.4 (6H,t). Elementary analysis for C₁₇H₂₈ClNO₂ (Molecular Weight 313.87): % C % H % N Calc. 65.05 8.99 4.46 Found 64.89 9.08 4.40 EXAMPLE 21 2-(RS)-[2-(4-morpholinyl) ethyl]-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran hydrochloride The debenzylation of 2-(RS)-[2-(4-morpholinyl) ethyl]-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran is performed with the procedure given in example 15. A white solid is obtained; it is then salified with ethereal HCl. m.p. 205-6°C; IR (KBr): 3389 (νOH), 2612 cm⁻¹ (νNH+); ¹H-NMR (CD₃OD): δ 4.3-3.8 (4H,m), 3.6-2.7 (8H,m), 2.5-2.2 (2H,m), 2.1 (6H,s), 2.0 (3H,s). Elementary analysis for C₁₇H₂₆ClNO₃ (Molecular Weight 327.85): % C % H % N Calc. 62.28 7.99 4.27 Found 62.08 8.08 4.19 EXAMPLE 22 2-(RS)-[2-(1-methyl-4-piperazinyl)ethyl]-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran 2-(RS)-[2-(1-methyl-4-piperazinyl) ethyl]-2,3-dihydro-5-benzyloxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran is debenzylated by using the same procedure as described in example 15. A white solid is obtained. m.p. 76-8°C; IR (KBr): 3391 cm⁻¹ (νOH); ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 5.1-4.5 (1H,m), 4.3 (1H,s), 3.5-2.7 (2H,m), 2.7-2.3 (10H,m), 2.25 (3H,s), 2.1 (6H,s), 2.05 (3H,s), 2.0-1.8 (2H,m). Elementary analysis for C₁₈H₂₈N₂O₂ (Molecular Weight 304.43): % C % H % N Calc. 71.02 9.27 9.20 Found 70.95 9.15 9.18 EXAMPLE 23 Butyric acid. 5-[2-(RS)-(2-acetoxyethyl-2,3-dihydro-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuranyl]ester 0.7 ml of pyridine and 0.9 ml of butyryl chloride are added dropwise to a solution of 2.0 g of 2-(RS)-(2-acetoxyethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran in 8 ml of dry tetrahydrofurane. After stirring for 1 hour at room temperature, the formed pyridine hydrochloride is filtered out and the filtrate is evaporated and treated with 1N hydrochloric acid. Extraction with diethyl ether. is performed; the extracts are dried and evaporated. The resulting residue is crystallized with benzene and affords 2.1 g of a white solid. m.p. 69-71°C; IR (KBr): 1729 (νCOOR), 1756 cm⁻¹ (νCOOAr); ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 5.1-4.5 (1H,m), 4.2 (2H,t), 3.3-2.7 (2H,m), 2.4 (2H,t), 2.15 (6H,s), 2.1 (3H,s), 2.0-1.6 (4H,m), 1.1 (3H,t). Elementary analysis for C₁₉H₂₆O₅ (Molecular Weight 334.41): % C % H Calc. 68.24 7.84 Found 68.23 7.86 EXAMPLE 24 Succinic acid, mono [5-(2-(RS)-(2-acetamidoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuranyl]ester A mixture of 2.6 g of N-[2-(2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethyl-2-(RS)-benzofuranyl) ethyl]acetamide and 2.0 g of succinic anhydride in 15 ml of pyridine is refluxed in an inert atmosphere for 4 hours. After cooling, the resulting solution is acidified and extracted with ethyl acetate. After washing with water, the organic phase is reextracted with an 8% sodium bicarbonate solution. After the aqueous phase has been acidified, the obtained suspension is again extracted. The final extracts are dried and evaporated, and the residue is purified using a column chromatography (SiO₂). The result is 3.1 g of a white solid. m.p. 118-20°C; IR (KBr): 1751 (νCOOAr), 1716 (νCOOH), 1661 cm⁻¹ (νCONH); ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 5.1-4.5 (1H,m), 3.7-2.6 (8H,m), 2.1 (6H,s), 2.0 (3H,s), 2.0-1.8 (2H,m), 1.8 (3H,s). Elementary analysis for C₁₉H₂₅NO₆ (Molecular Weight 363.41): % C % H % N Calc. 62.80 6.93 3.85 Found 62.73 6.96 3.85 EXAMPLE 25 2-(RS)-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran (IRFI 039) 2-(2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuranyl) acetic acid (IRFI 005) is reduced to alcohol by carrying out the procedure as described in example 1. The obtained raw product is crystallized with benzene. m.p. 123-5°C; IR (KBr): 3284 (νOH), 1005 cm⁻¹ (νC-O); ¹H-NMR (CD₃OD): δ 5.1-4.4 (2H,m), 3.7 (2H,t), 3.3-2.6 (2H,m), 2.1 (6H,s), 2.0 (3H,s), 1.85 (2H,m). Elementary analysis for C₁₃H₁₈O₃ (Molecular Weight 222.28): % C % H Calc. 70.24 8.16 Found 69.99 8.23 EXAMPLE 26 2-(RS)-(2-acetylthioethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran (IRFI 061) A solution of 17.3 g. of triphenylphosphine in 150 ml of dry tetrahydrofurane is cooled to 0°C. After having stirred the mixture for one hour, 9.8 g of 2-(RS)-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran and 4.7 ml of thioacetic acid in 60 ml of tetrahydrofurane is added dropwise at 0°C to the mixture. After an hour at 0°C and 2 hours at room temperature, the mixture is evaporated under vacuum, and the product is isolated by column chromatography (SiO₂). After crystallization from hexane, 10.7 g of a white crystalline solid is obtained. m.p. 89.5-91.5°C; IR (KBr): 3406 (νOH), 1686 cm⁻¹ (νSCOCH₃); ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 5.1-4.5 (2H,m), 3.4-2.6 (4H,m), 2.3 (3H,s), 2.1 (9H,s), 1.9 (2H,m). Elementary Analysis for C₁₅H₂₀O₃S (Molecular Weight 280.38): % C % H Calc. 64.26 7.19 Found 64.29 7.30 EXAMPLE 27 2-(RS)-(2-mercaptoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran A solution of 5.1 g of 2-(RS)-(2-acetylthioethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran in 90 ml of acetone is treated with 20 ml of a 25% NH₃ solution under nitrogen and stirred for 16 hours. After acidification, the mixture is extracted with ethyl acetate, and the extracts are dried and evaporated. 4.3 g of a white solid is obtained that can be crystallized from benzene. m.p. 163-165°C; IR (KBr): 3351 (νOH), 1237 cm⁻¹ (νAr-O-CH); ¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 5.1-4.4 (1H,m), 3.5 (1H, sb), 3.2-2.6 (4H,m), 2.1 (2H,m), 2.0 (6H,s), 1.95 (3H,s), 1.2 (1H,m). Elementary Analysis for C₁₃H₁₈O₂S (Molecular Weight 238.34): % C % H Calc. 65.51 7.61 Found 65.53 7.45 EXAMPLE 28 2-(RS)-(2-iodoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran (IRFI 066) 4.4 g of iodine are added to a mixture of 3.1 g of 2-(RS)-2-hydroxyethyl-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4, 6, 7-trimethylbenzofuran, 5.5 g of triphenylphosphine and 1.4 g of imidazole in 60 ml of toluene. The mixture is stirred for 3 hours at 60°C. The imidazole HBr is then filtered out and the filtrate is evaporated. After purification by column chromatography (SiO₂), 3.0 g of white solid are obtained. m.p. 96-7°C; IR (KBr): 3403 (νOH), 1195 cm⁻¹ (w CH₂I); ¹H-HMR (CCl₄): δ 4.9-4.4 (1H,m), 4.0 (1H,s), 3.2 (2H,t), 3.0-2.5 (2H,m), 2.2 (2H,m), 2.1 (9H,s). Elementary analysis for C₁₃H₁₇IO₂ (Molecular Weight 332.18): % C % H Calc. 47.00 5.16 Found 46.98 5.14 EXAMPLE 29 2-(RS)-(2-acetoxyethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-acetoxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran 2-(RS)-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran is acetylated using the procedure described in example 4. The obtained oil slowly crystallizes. IR (liquid film): 1758 (νAcOAr), 1741 cm⁻¹ (νAcOR); ¹H-NMR (CCl₄): δ 5.0-4.5 (1H,m), 4.2 (2H,t), 3.4-2.7 (2H,m), 2.2 (3H,s), 2.1 (3H,s), 2.0 (6H,s), 1.9 (3H,s), 1.9-1.7 (2H,m). Elementary analysis for C₁₇H₂₂O₅ (Molecular Weight 306.36): % C % H Calc. 66.65 7.24 Found 66.63 7.40 EXAMPLE 30 Succinic acid, mono 5-(2,3-dihydro-2-(RS)-(2-acetylthioethyl)-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuranyl) ester (IRFI 042) A mixture of 11.4 g. of 2-(RS)-(2-acetylthioethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran and 8.1 g. of succinic anhydride in 60 ml of pyridine is refluxed in a nitrogen atmosphere for 4 hours. After cooling, the resulting solution is acidified with HCl and extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic phase is washed with water and reextracted with an 8% NaHCO₃ solution. After acidification of the aqueous phase the product is again extracted with ethyl acetate. The extracts are dried and evaporated, and the raw residue is subjected to column chromatography (SiO₂). After crystallizing with EtOH/H₂O, 8,9 g of a white crystalline solid is obtained. m.p. 102-4°C; IR (KBr): 1747 (νRCOOAr), 1710 (νCOOH), 1693 cm⁻¹ (νSCOCH₃); H¹-NMR(CDCl₃): δ 5.1-4.5 (1H,m), 3.6-2.6 (8H,m), 2.3 (3H,s), 2.1 (3H,s), 1.95 (6H,s), 1.8 (2H,m). Elementary analysis for C₁₉H₂₄O₆S (Molecular Weight 380.45): % C % H Calc. 59.98 6.36 Found 59.99 6.37 EXAMPLE 31 2-(RS)-(2-iodoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-acetoxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran The acetylation of the 2-(RS)-(2-iodoethyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuran is performed by carrying out the procedure as described in example 4. The obtained product is a white solid. m.p. 89-90°C; IR (KBr): 1748 cm⁻¹ (νAcO); ¹H-NMR (CCl₄): δ 5.0-4.5 (1H,m), 3.2 (2H,t), 3.1-2.6 (2H,m), 2.3 (3H,s), 2.2-2.1 (2H,m), 2.1 (6H,s), 2.05 (3H,s). Elementary analysis for C₁₅H₁₉IO₃ (Molecular Weight 374.21): % C % H Calc. 48.14 5.12 Found 48.18 5.08

Claims: A compound with the following formula: or its pharmaceutically-acceptable salts, in which R is: a hydrogen; a linear or branched alkyl with 1 to 6 carbon atoms; a benzyl; an aliphatic acyl, COR₂, where R₂ is a linear or branched alkyl up to 6 carbons in particular, acetyl; a hemiacyl of a bicarboxylic acid, in particular, hemisuccinoyl; R₁ is: a hydrogen; an hydroxyl; an acyloxy group, -OCOR₃, where R₃ is a lower alkyl, in particular, methyl; a sulfidrylic group; a thioether, -SR₄, where R₄ is a heterocyclic residue, in particular, 2-thiazolinyl and 2-pyrimidinyl; an acylthio group, -SCOR₃, where R₃ is as previously defined; a primary amine group; a dialkylamine group, -NR₅R₆, where R₅ and R₆ are lower alkyls or constitute a saturated heterocyclic ring, in particular, morpholine and N-methylpiperazine; secondary amide -NHCOR₇, where R₇ is a lower-alkyl or aryl residue, in particular, methyl and 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl; a halogen, in particular, bromine and iodine. A process for the preparation of formula I compounds where R is an alkyl or a benzyl, and R₁ is a hydroxyl according to a synthesis scheme which uses 2-(RS)-2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuranyl) as starting material acetic acid (or its methyl ester) and provides in the following order: a) the alkylation of the hydroxyl in 5 position using one of the known methods, such as treatment with dialkyl sulfate in an alkaline solution or with alkyl halide in solution with an organic solvent, such as dimethylformamide or again with triphenylphosphine, dialkyl azodicarboxylate and the suitable alcohol in solution with an organic solvent such as tetrahydrofurane; b) the reduction of the compounds thus obtained by using an appropriate reducer of the carboxylic group, such as lithium aluminum hydride in solution with an ethereal solvent such as tetrahydrofurane. A process for the preparation of formula I compounds where R is an alkyl or a benzyl, and R₁ is an -OCOR₃ group (where R₃ is a lower alkyl), whereby the compounds of claim 2 are acylated by treating with an activated derivative of R₃COOH acid, optionally possible, in the presence of an organic base such as pyridine. A process for the preparation of formula I compounds in which R is an alkyl or a benzyl, and R₁ is a primary amine group, which provides the following in the order given: a) the preparation of the appropriate N-substituted phthalimide by treating the compounds of claim 2 with triphenylphosphine, phthalimide or dialkyl azodicarboxylate in solution with an organic solvent such as tetrahydrofurane; b) the releasing of the primary amine by treating the above-mentioned N-substituted phthalimide with hydrazine hydrate in solution with one or more organic solvents such as for example, ethanol and tetrahydrofurane at the reflux temperature of the solution. A process for the preparation of formula I compounds where R is an alkyl or a benzyl and R₁ is a secondary amine group, - NHCOR₇, where R₇ is the same as previously defined, whereby the claim-4 compounds are acylated with an activated derivative of the acid R₇COOH in an inert organic solvent such as chloroform and optionally, in the presence of an organic base such as triethylamine. A process for the preparation of formula I compounds where R is an alkyl or a benzyl and R₁ is a hydrogen, whereby the claim-2 compounds are treated with an appropriate sulfonyl chloride - such as, for example, p-toluensulfonyl chloride - in a basic organic solvent such as pyridine, and the sulfonate thus obtained is reduced with an appropriate hydride, such as lithium aluminum hydride, in an inert organic solvent such as tetrahydrofurane. A process for the preparation of formula I compounds where R is an alkyl or a benzyl and R₁ is bromine or iodine, whereby the claim-2 compounds are treated with bromine or iodine, triphenylphosphine and a nitrogen heterocyclic base such as imidazole in solution with an inert organic solvent such as toluene; or with a halogenating agent such as phosphorus tribromide in a suitable organic solvent such as benzene. A process for the preparation of formula I compounds where R is an alkyl or a benzyl and R₁ is a -SR₄ group, where R₄ is a heterocyclic residue, in particular, 2-thiazolinyl and 2-pyrimidinyl, whereby the claim-7 compounds are treated with the appropriate mercaptoheterocycle (in particular, 2-thiazolin-2-thiol and 2-mercaptopyrimidine) in the presence of a bicyclic amidine, such as 1,8-diazobicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (DBU) in an inert organic solvent such as benzene or toluene. A process for the preparation of formula I compounds where R is an alkyl or a benzyl and R₁ is a dialkylamine radical, - NR₅R₆, where R₅ and R₆ are lower alkyls (in particular, ethyl) or form a saturated heterocyclic ring, in particular, morpholine or N-methyl piperazine, whereby the claim-6 compounds are treated with the appropriate dialkylamine or the appropriate saturated nitrogen heterocyclic compound in solution with an organic solvent such as ethanol at the reflux temperature of the latter for a suitable length of time. A process for the preparation of formula I compounds where, R is a hydrogen and R₁ is one of the groups described in claims 3,4,5,6 and 9, whereby a solution (for example, ethanolic) of the formula I compounds, where R is a benzyl and R₁ is, as defined in the aforesaid claims, is treated with a catalyzer - such as palladium on carbon - under a suitable pressure of hydrogen gas for an appropriate length of time. A process for the preparation of formula I compounds, where R is a lower acyl -COR₂ (in which R₂ is as previously defined) or a hemiacyl of a bicarboxylic acid, and R₁ is one of the groups described in claims 3,5,6,8,9 and 10, whereby the formula I compounds - where R is a hydrogen and R₁ is one of the groups -OCOR₃, NH₂, -NHCOR₇, -H, -SR₄, or -NR₅R₆ (where R₃, R₄, R₅, R₆ and R₇ are as previously defined) - are acylated by treatment with an activated derivative of the appropriate acid (in particular, acetic or succinic anhydride) and, optionally, in the presence of an organic base such as pyridine. A process for the preparation of a formula I compound where R = H and R₁ = OH (IRFI 039), whereby the 2-(RS)-(2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-4,6,7-trimethylbenzofuranyl) acetic acid (IRFI 005) is reduced by means of one of the known reducers of the carboxylic function, in particular, lithium aluminum hydride, in solution with an ethereal solvent such as tetrahydrofurane. A process for the preparation of formula I compounds where R = H and R₁ = SCOR₃, R₃ being lower alkyl, in particular, methyl, whereby the claim-12 compound is treated with triphenylphosphine, dialkyl azodicarboxylate and the appropriate thioacid R₃COSH in solution with an inert solvent such as tetrahydrofurane. A process for the preparation of a formula I compound where R = H and R₁ = SH, whereby the claim-13 thioesters are hydrolyzed with an appropriate weak base, such as a dilute solution of acqueous ammonia, to which has been added an organic solvent such as acetone, in an inert atmosphere. A process for the preparation of a formula I compound where R = H and R₁ = I (IRFI 066), whereby the claim-12 compound is treated with iodine, triphenylphosphine and a nitrogen heterocyclic base such as imidazole, in solution with an organic inert solvent such as toluene. A process for the preparation of formula I compounds where R = COR₃ and R₁ = OCOR₃, where R₃ is as previously defined, whereby the claim-12 compound is acylated with an activated derivative of the appropriate carboxylic acid and, optionally, in the presence of an organic base such as pyridine. A process for the preparation of formula I compounds where R is a lower acyl, -COR₂ (where R₂ is as previously defined) or a hemiacyl of a bicarboxylic acid, in particular, hemisuccinoyl, and R₁ is a -SCOR₃ group (where R₃ is a lower alkyl, in particular, methyl), whereby the claim-13 compounds are acylated with an activated derivative of an appropriate carboxylic acid; in particular, where R is a hemisuccinoyl, the acylation is performed by treatment with succinic anhydride in solution with pyridine at reflux temperature of the latter in an inert atmosphere for a suitable length of time. A process for the preparation of formula I compounds where R is a lower acyl, -COR₂ (where R₂ is as previously defined) and R₁ is iodine, whereby the claim-15 compound is treated with an activated derivative of the appropriate carboxylic acid and, optionally, in the presence of an organic base such as pyridine. Pharmaceutical compositions having antioxidizing/radical-scavenging and mucoregulating activity, characterized by the fact that their active principles are the claim-1 compounds. Pharmaceutical compositions according to claim 19, in the form of solutions, syrups, tablets, capsules, salves and suppositories.

Inventors: BRUFANI MARIO, CECCARELLI STEFANO, DE VELLIS PATRIZIA, GIANNETTI PATRIZIA, PAESANO AGNESE, SCURI ROMOLO, ZANARELLA SERGIO, BRUFANI, MARIO, CECCARELLI, STEFANO, DE VELLIS, PATRIZIA, GIANNETTI, PATRIZIA, PAESANO, AGNESE, SCURI, ROMOLO, ZANARELLA, SERGIO
Applicants: FOSCAMA BIOMED CHIM FARMA, BIOMEDICA FOSCAMA INDUSTRIA CHIMICO-FARMACEUTICA S.P.A.
Application year: 1990
Main classification: C07D307
IPC codes: A61K31, C07D405, C07D307, A61P11, A61P39, A61P43, A61P9, C07D417