PIPERAZINE DERIVATIVES ACTIVE ON THE LOWER URINARY TRACT

Abstract: Piperazine derivatives of formula (I) (Ar, Ar' and B are substituted or unsubstituted aryl or heteroaryl groups, Y = N, CH, C-OH, C-CN or C-CONH2, R = H or lower alkyl, Z = CH2 or CH2CH2, Z' = bond or CH2 or CH2CH2) bind to 5HT1A receptors and are useful for the treatment of neuromuscular dysfunctions of the lower urinary tract. The use of these compounds for the preparation of a medicament for this treatment is claimed, and some of the compounds (Z = CH2, Z' = bond) are claimed per se.

Description: PIPERAZINE DERIVATIVES ACTIVE ON THE LOWER URINARY TRACT FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to piperazine derivatives, to pharmaceutical compositions containing them and to uses for such derivatives and compositions. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION In mammals, micturition (urination) is a complex process that requires the integrated actions of the bladder, its internal and external sphincters, the musculature of the pelvic floor, and neurological control over these muscles at three levels (in the bladder wall or sphincter itself, in the autonomic centres of the spinal cord, and in the central nervous system at the level of the pontine micturition centre (PMC) in the brainstem (pons) under the control of cerebral cortex) (De Groat, Neurobiology of Incontinence, (Ciba Foundation Symposium 151:27. 1990). Micturition results from contraction of the detrusor muscle, which consists of interlacing smooth muscle fibres under parasympathetic autonomic control from the sacral spinal cord. A simple voiding reflex is formed by sensory nerves for pain, temperature, and distension that run from the bladder to the sacral cord. However, sensory tracts from the bladder also reach the PMC, resulting in the generation of nerve impulses that normally suppress the sacral spinal reflex arc controlling bladder emptying. Thus, normal micturition is initiated by voluntary suppression of cortical inhibition of the reflex arc and by relaxation of the muscles of the pelvic floor and the external sphincter. Finally, the detrusor muscle contracts and voiding occurs. Abnormalities of lower urinary tract function, e.g., dysuria, incontinence, and enuresis, are common in the general population. Dysuria includes urinary frequency, nocturia, and urgency, and may be caused by cystitis, prostatitis or benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) (which affects about 70% of elderly males), or by neurological disorders. Incontinence syndromes include stress incontinence, urgency incontinence, and overflow incontinence. Enuresis refers to the involuntary passage of urine at night or during sleep. Prior to the work of the present inventors, treatment of neuromuscular dysfunction of the lower urinary tract has involved administration of compounds that act directly on the bladder muscles, such as flavoxate, a spasmolytic drug (Ruffman, J. Int.Med.Res. 16:317, 1988) also active on the PMC (Guarneri et al., Drugs of Today 30:91, 1994), anticholinergic compounds such as oxybutynin (Andersson, Drugs 35:477, 1988), or "mixed action" drugs like imipra ine (Andersson, Drugs of Today 24:337, 1988). The use of αl-adrenergic receptor antagonists for the treatment of BPH is also common but is based on a different mechanism of action. (Lepor, Urology, 42:483, 1993). However, treatments that involve direct inhibition of the pelvic musculature (including the detrusor muscle) may have unwanted side effects such as incomplete voiding or accommodation paralysis, tachycardia and dry mouth A-ndersson, Drugs 35:477, 1988) and drugs like imipramine may have relevant side effects, in particular on the cardiovascular system (orthostatic hypotension, ventricular arrhytmia) at the therapeutic doses. Thus, it would be preferable to utilise compounds that act via the peripheral or central nervous system to, for example, affect the sacral spinal reflex arc and/or the PMC inhibition pathways in a manner that restores normal functioning of the micturition mechanism. Flavoxate, oxybutynin and imipramine are representative drugs from three different classes of compounds currently used in the therapy of urinary incontinence. These drugs have been tested in animal models where their activity has been confirmed. The compounds of the invention, described below, have few structural characteristics in common with the above cited drugs, other than a basic nitrogen atom. The compounds of the invention are more potent, relative to the above cited drugs, in pharmacological tests predictive of activity on the lower urinary tract, in particular for activity against neuromuscular dysfunction of the lower urinary tract. The compounds of the invention are also potent and selective ligands for the 5-HT 1A serotonergic receptor. Other compounds which have been discovered by the present inventors to be useful in the methods of the present invention, e.g., treatment of disorders of the urinary tract, are disclosed in FR 1505109, EP 479546, DE 2800535, US 3030367, Arch. Pharmacie. 328:604 (1995), Arzn. Forsch. 31: 1 178 (1981) and J. Med. Chem. 12:860 (1969), all of which are incorporated by reference. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In one aspect, the invention relates to the use of compounds of formula I wherein each of Ar and Ar' independently represents an optionally substituted aryl or heteroaryl group, Y represents a nitrogen atom or a CH, C-OH, C-CN or C-CONH 2 group, R represents a hydrogen atom or a lower alkyl group, B represents an optionally substituted monocyclic or bicyclic aryl or heteroaryl group, Z represents a methylene or an ethylene group, and Z " represents a valence bond or a methylene or ethylene group. for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment of neuromuscular dysfunction of the lower urinary tract in a mammal. In another aspect, the invention provides compounds of formula IA wherein each of Ar and Ar' independently represents an aryl group, a substituted aryl group other than a halophenyl group, a heteroaryl group containing not more than one ring nitrogen atom, or a substituted heteroaryl group containing not more than one ring nitrogen atom, Y represents a nitrogen atom or a CH, C-OH, C-CN or C-CONH 2 group, R represents a hydrogen atom or a lower alkyl group. B represents a substituted aryl group, a heteroaryl group other than a pyrimidinyl or quinazolinyl group, or a substituted heteroaryl group other than a substituted pyrimidinyl or a substituted quinazolinyl group, with the provisos that: when Y represents a C-OH group, Ar and Ar ' do not simultaneously represent thienyl groups, and when Y represents a C-CN or C-CONH : group and B represents a 2- methoxyphenyl group, Ar and Ar' do not simultaneously represent phenyl groups. The invention also includes the enantiomers. diastereomers, N-oxides, crystalline forms, hydrates and pharmaceutically acceptable salts of these compounds, as well as metabolites of these compounds having the same type of activity (hereafter sometimes referred to as "active metabolites"). The invention further provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of formula IA or an enantiomer, diastereomer, N-oxide, crystalline form, hydrate or pharmaceutically acceptable salt of such a compound in admixture with a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent or carrier. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION All patents, patent applications, and literature references cited in the specification are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. In the case of inconsistencies, the present disclosure, including definitions, will prevail. The activity of the compounds of the invention as inhibitors of frequency of micturition renders them useful for the treatment of neuromuscular dvsfunctions of the lower urinary tract in mammals, including without limitation dysuria, incontinence and enuresis. The structural features of the compounds of the invention render them significantly more potent than flavoxate and imipramine. The compounds of the invention are also more potent than oxybutynin, and also have a different, and superior, mode of action. The surprisingly superior properties of the compounds of the invention relative to the compounds of the prior art were determined by testing the prior art compounds and the compounds of the invention in a rat model. The rhythmic contraction of rat bladders was induced by filling the bladders with a physiologic solution. The effect of test compounds of the invention on the frequency and amplitude of the contractions was evaluated. Of particular interest is the time of disappearance of induced contractions of the bladder. A comparison of the effects of currently available drugs (flavoxate, oxybutynin and imipramine) with the compounds of the invention in the above rat model is shown in Table 1. Compounds of the invention were longer-acting with respect to duration of induced bladder quiescence with no contractions than flavoxate, oxybutynin. and imipramine. In addition, in contrast to oxybutynin. the compounds of the invention did not affect the amplitude of the bladder contractions, suggesting no impairment of bladder contractility, and thus no impairment of bladder emptying when micturition is desired. Finally, the demonstration that the compounds of the invention have a high affinity for the 5-HT JA receptor (Table 2) suggests a role for this receptor in the action of the compounds of the invention. The pharmacological tests (and Tables) cited above are described in more detail in the Examples below. As used herein, the term aryl includes mono and bicyclic aromatic groups having from 6 to 12 carbon atoms (e.g. phenyl or naphthyl). Preferred substituents for substituted aryl groups include halogen atoms and alkyl, alkoxy, cyano, amido, acyl, nitro, amino, acylamino, alkylsulphonylamino and alkylamino groups, except when specifically disclaimed. When B comprises an aryl group, two substituents on the aromatic ring may be connected together to form another ring system. For example, B may represent a benzodioxanyl ring. Preferred groups at variable B are monocyclic aryl or bicyclic heteroaryl groups. Most preferred at B are an alkoxyphenyl group or a bicyclic heteroaryl group containing one heteroatom. As used herein, the term heteroaryl includes mono and bicyclic aromatic groups having from 5 to 12 ring atoms including one or more heteroatoms (e.g. nitrogen, oxygen, sulphur). When it is specified that the heteroaryl group contains not more than one ring nitrogen atom, this does not exclude the presence of other ring heteroatoms as. for example, in thiazolyl or isoxazolyl groups. Each of Ar and Ar' preferably represents a phenyl, 2-nitrophenyl, 4-nitrophenyl, 4- methoxyphenyl or 2-pyridyl group, irrespective of the value of any of the other variables in the general formula I. R preferably represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, irrespective of the value of any of the other variables in the general formula I. B preferably represents a 2-methoxyphenyl, 5-(2,3-dihydro-l,4-benzodioxinyl) or 4-lH-indolyl group, irrespective of the value of any of the other variables in the general formula I. It is preferred that Ar and Ar' represent different variables. It is more preferred that Ar be a phenyl group and Ar' be a pyridyl group. It is most preferred that Ar be a substituted phenyl group and Ar' be a 2-pyridyl group. Preferred substituents at Y are C-CN, C-OH and CH. One preferred group of compounds is that in which Y represents a nitrogen atom or a C-CN or C-CONH 2 group. Another preferred group of compounds is that in which Y represents a CH or C-OH group and Ar and Ar' both represent optionally substituted aryl groups. Subjects who can benefit from administration of the compounds and compositions of the invention include humans who are affected by neuromuscular dysfunction of the lower urinary tract, described by E.J. McGuire in "Campbell's UROLOGY" 5 th Ed. 616- 638, 1986, W.B. Saunders Company, and also include patients affected by any physiological dysfunction related to impairment of 5-HT 1A receptor function. Such dysfunctions include, without limitation, central nervous system disorders such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sexual dysfunction, addiction, and related problems. The present invention encompasses pharmaceutical formulations of the compounds disclosed above, as well as methods employing these formulations for treating neuromuscular dysfunction of the lower urinary tract such as dysuria, incontinence, enuresis, and the like. Dysuria includes urinary frequency, nocturia, urgency, and difficulty in emptying the bladder, i.e., a suboptimal volume of urine is expelled during micturition. Incontinence syndromes include stress incontinence, urgency incontinence, and overflow incontinence. Enuresis refers to the involuntary passage of urine at night or during sleep. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that administration of 5-HT iA receptor antagonists prevents unwanted activity of the sacral reflex arc and/or cortical mechanisms that control micturition. Thus it is contemplated that a wide range of neuromuscular dysfunctions of the lower urinary tract can be treated using the compounds of the present invention. An "effective amount" of the compound for treating a urinary disorder is an amount that results in measurable amelioration of at least one symptom or parameter of the disorders described above. An effective amount for treating the disorder can easily be determined by empirical methods known to those of ordinary skill in the art, such as by establishing a matrix of dosages and frequencies of administration and comparing a group of experimental units or subjects to each point in the matrix. The exact amount to be administered to a patient will vary depending on the state and severity of the disorder and the physical condition of the patient. A measurable amelioration of any symptom or parameter can be determined by a physician skilled in the art or reported by the patient to the physician. It will be understood that any clinically or statistically significant attenuation or amelioration of any symptom or parameter of urinary tract disorders is within the scope of the invention. Clinically significant attenuation or amelioration means perceptible to the patient and/or to the physician. For example, a single patient may suffer from several symptoms of dysuria simultaneously, for example urgency and excessive frequency of urination, either or both of which may be reduced by treatment with the compounds of the invention. In the case of incontinence, any reduction in the frequency or volume of unwanted passage of urine is considered a beneficial effect of the treatment. The compounds of the invention may be formulated into liquid dosage forms with a physiologically acceptable carrier, such as, for example, phosphate buffered saline or deionised water. The pharmaceutical formulation may also contain excipients, including preservatives and stabilizers, that are well-known in the art. The compounds can be formulated into solid oral or non-oral dosage units such as. for example, tablets, capsules, powders, and suppositories, and may additionally include excipients, including without limitation lubricant(s), plasticizer(s), colorant(s), absorption enhancer(s), bactericide(s), and the like. Modes of administration include oral and enteral, intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, transdermal, transmucosal (including rectal and buccal), and by-inhalation routes. Preferably, an oral or transdermal route is used (i.e., via solid or liquid oral formulations, or skin patches, respectively). The amount of the agent to be administered can range from between about 0.01 and about 25 mg/kg/day, preferably from between about 0.1 and about 10 mg/kg/day and most preferably from between about 0.2 and about 5 mg/kg/day. It will be understood that the pharmaceutical formulations of the present invention need not in themselves contain the entire amount of the agent that is effective in treating the disorder, as such effective amounts can be reached by administration of a plurality of doses of such pharmaceutical formulations. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, compounds are formulated in capsules or tablets, each preferably containing 50-200 mg of the compounds of the invention, and are most preferably administered to a patient at a total daily dose of 50-400 mg, preferably 150-250 mg, and most preferably about 200 mg for relief of urinary incontinence and dysfunctions amenable to treatment with 5-HT 1A receptor antagonists. The methods, Tables and Examples below are intended more fully to describe preferred embodiments of the invention and to demonstrate its advantages and applicability, without limiting the scope of the invention. SYNTHESIS OF THE COMPOUND OF THE INVENTION Compounds of formula I according to the invention wherein Y is a CH group, R is H and Ar, Z, Z' and B have the same meanings as above can be prepared as shown by Scheme 1 , below: Scheme 1 Ar Ar . Ar' Ar" ' X OH IV V Intermediates of formula II are commercially available or their syntheses have been published in the literature and/or they can be prepared by conventional methods. In general, the intermediates of formula II can be synthesised, for example for compounds where Z is CH 2 from the corresponding diarylketones via a Reformatsky reaction with alkyl 2-bromoacetate and activated zinc (Org. React., 1975, 22, 423; Synthesis, 1989, 571) followed by hydrolysis, or by utilising the Wadsworth-Emmons reaction with triethyl phosphonoacetate and a base (Chem. Rev., 1989, 89. 863), followed by hydrolysis. Additional synthetic routes to intermediates of formula II will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Intermediates of formula II can be condensed with the appropriate N-monosubstituted piperazine derivative in the presence of a coupling agent (e.g. diethyl cyanophosphonate, dicyclohexylcarbodiimide or N,N'-carbonyldiimidazole) optionally in the presence of a promoting agent (e.g. N-hydroxysuccinimide, 4-dimethylaminopyridine) in an aprotic or a chlorinated solvent (e.g. dimethylformamide, chloroform, dichloromethane) at temperatures between about -20°C and about 140°C (Albertson, Org. React. 1962, 12, 205-218; Doherty et al., J Med. Chem 1992, 35, 2; Staab et al., Newer Methods Prep. Org. Chem. 1968, 5, 61; Ishihara, Chem. Pharm. Bull. 1991, 39, 3236) to give compounds with formula III. Other reaction procedures for achieving compounds of formula III include the mixed anhydride reaction, e.g., reaction of intermediates of formula II with an alkyl chloroformate in the presence of a tertiary amine (e.g. triethylamine) followed by addition of an appropriate piperazine reagent in an aprotic solvent (e.g. dioxane, dichloromethane), optionally in the presence of, e.g., 1-hydroxypiperidine as a promoting agent {Org. React. 1962, 12, 157). Other methods for the amidification of Intermediate II (or simple derivatives of II such as esters or acyl chlorides) with N-monosubstituted piperazines will be obvious to those skilled in the art. Yet another condensation method includes the reaction of a simple alkyl ester of II with an aluminium amide synthesised from piperazines and trimethylaluminium (J. Med. Chem 1996, 39, 4692). Intermediates of formula HI can be reduced to the desired compound I, where Y = CH, by the use of reducing agents capable of converting the a ido functionality to an amino moiety. Such agents are, for example, lithium aluminium hydride or other complex aluminium hydrides. The reducing reactions are performed in diethyl ether or tetrahydrofuran, or in a stable diborane complex such as borane-tetrahydrofuran or borane-dimethyl sulphide or others (J Org. Chem 1982, 47, 1389) used in an appropriate solvent (e.g. tetrahydrofuran). These boron compounds are particularly useful when the Ar group(s) are carrying reducible groups such as nitro; when diborane complexes are used, these reducible groups are not reduced. Many other useful reducing agents are known to those skilled in the art (March, Advanced Organic Chemistry, Wiley Interscience Ed., 1992,1212). An alternative reaction pathway to prepare the compounds of the invention where Y is CH is to reduce compounds of formula II using the reducing agents disclosed above or other conventional procedures (e.g., using NaBH 4 with CaCl 2 , or by preparing and reducing mixed anhydrides, obtained by reaction of the carboxylic acid with a chloroformate, followed by treatment with NaBH 4 ) to alcohol compounds of formula IV. These alcohols are converted into the alkylating reagents V, where X is a leaving group (e.g., Cl, I, Br, p-toluenesulphonyloxy, methanesulphonyloxy), by conventional, well documented nucleophilic substitution procedures. Compounds of formula V can be reacted with monosubstituted piperazines affording compounds of formula I. These alkylation reactions are performed by conventional methods, well known to those skilled in the art. Usually the condensation is carried out in an aprotic (e.g. acetonitrile, dimethylformamide, toluene, dioxane, tetrahydrofuran) or protic solvent (e.g. ethanol, n-butanol). If the reactants have a low melting point, the reaction can be carried out without any solvent. The substitution reactions can, optionally, be performed in the presence of a base (e.g. triethylamine, diisopropylethylamine, pyridine, 4-dimethylaminopyridine, potassium carbonate). Reaction temperatures are typically between room temperature and 180°C. Compounds with formulas IV and V can also be prepared by alkylating an ArCH 2 Ar compound at its methane carbanion (obtained, e.g., by treatment of the ArCH 2 Ar compound with butyl lithium or another complex lithium or other alkali metal base) with compounds of formula X-CH 2 (CH 2 ) n CH 2 -OPrG or X-CH 2 (CH 2 ) n CH 2 -X, respectively, where X has the same meanings as above, n is 0 or 1 and PrG is a protecting group (e.g. O-tetrahydropyranyl) to be removed after alkylation. Compounds of formula I can be directly prepared by reacting the carbanion ArCH " Ar obtained using alkali metal bases with compounds of formula VI, below, where X is a leaving group as described above: Compounds of formula VI can be conveniently prepared starting from compounds VI having a COOAlk group instead of the -CH 2 -X terminal group. Conventional reduction procedures (e.g., treatment with lithium aluminium hydride or other metal complex hydrides) afford the corresponding compounds VI where X=OH. Conversion of hydroxyl groups to leaving groups (i.e., -OH to X) is a conventional procedure for those of ordinary skill. The starting esters can be prepared by well known Michael reactions or nucleophilic displacement reactions of a monosubstituted piperazine with a suitable 2,3-unsaturated ester or 2-haloester. Alternative procedures to obtain compounds of formula VI consist of alkylating a suitable monosubstituted piperazine compound with compounds of formulas X-CH(R)-(CH 2 ) n -CH 2 -OPrG or X-CH 2 -(CH 2 ) n -CH 2 -X, where X and n have the same meanings as above and PrG is a protecting group (e.g. O-tetrahydropyranyl) which can be easily removed after alkylation. Compounds of formula I according to the invention where Y is a C-CN or C-CONH 2 group and Ar, R, Z, Z' and B have the meanings set forth above can be prepared as shown by the Scheme 2, as follows: Scheme 2 Intermediates of formula VII are generally commercially available or can be synthesised by conventional synthetic methods. Such intermediates can be converted into compounds with formula I, where X is C-CN. via alkylation of the corresponding carbanion with the suitable piperazine derivatives VI (11 Farmaco, 1995, 50, 505). The alkylation is performed by the use of an alkali metal base (e.g. butyl lithium, sodium amide, sodium hydride, lithium diisopropyl amide, lithium 6 5(trimethylsilyl)amide or other alkali metal bases known to those skilled in the art) in a proper aprotic solvent such as toluene, tetrahydrofuran, dimethoxyethane, dioxane, diglyme or other) at temperatures between -20°C to the reflux temperature of the solvent. Compounds of formula I where X = C-CN can be easily converted by conventional procedures (partial hydrolysis by aqueous acid, e.g., 70% sulphuric acid or a Lewis acid at between room temperature and 80°C; March, Advanced Organic Chemistry, Wiley Interscience Ed., 1992, 887) to compounds of formula I where X is C-CONH 2 . Hydrolysis carried out under more severe conditions (e.g. 70% sulphuric acid at reflux) allows an alternative procedure to the method reported in the first reaction scheme affording compounds of formula I where X is CH. Another route to the compounds of the invention consists of performing a carbon alkylation with a piperazine derivative of formula VI on ArCH 2 CN compounds of formula VIII, which are generally commercially available or accessible through conventional synthetic methods, to afford intermediates of formula IX. Compounds of formula IX can be arylated with an Ar-LG compound (where the leaving group LG represents a chlorine, bromine or fluorine atom). This typically can be carried out by a phase transfer reaction in the presence of a base (e.g. 50% sodium hydroxide: Tetrahedron Letters,1969, 673) and a catalyst (e.g. triethylbenzyl ammonium chloride) in a suitable solvent (e.g. toluene ) at between room temperature and the reflux temperature of the solvent. The aryl group should be activated to nucleophilic aromatic substitution by the presence of electron-withdrawing group(s) in the proper position or/and being an electron-deficient heterocycle (Chem. Rev., 1951, 49, 273). Examples of such aryl groups are nitro-substituted or halogen-substituted aryls. Compounds of formula I of the invention where Y is a C-OH group and Ar, R Z, Z' and B have the same definitions as described above, can be prepared according to scheme 3, as follows: Scheme 3 Ar et N - Z - B XI I (C-OH) An aryl metal derivative ArMet where Met stands for metal (e.g. lithium or magnesium, prepared by reacting butyl lithium or magnesium turnings with an aryl bromide or an aryl iodide compound in tetrahydrofuran at between -70 °C and the solvent reflux temperature) is reacted in the same solvent at between -20 °C and the reflux temperature of the solvent with conventionally prepared derivatives of formula X, where A can represent a carboxylate, cyano, or CONH 2 group. X is preferably an alkyl piperazinopropionate or an alkyl piperazinoacetate. In some cases direct lithiation of the aryl species is feasible, e.g., in the case where an ortho dimethylcarbamoyl or methoxy substituent is present on Ar. When A represents a (CH 3 O)(CH 3 )NC(O) group (i.e., a Weinreb amide), it is possible to perform a step by step reaction consisting of the isolation of ArC(O) intermediates with compounds of formula XI. followed by further reaction with another ArMet to afford the alcohol compounds of formula I, which also bear different Ar groups. Compounds of the invention with formula I where Y is nitrogen may generally be prepared as shown by Scheme 4, as follows: Scheme 4 Intermediates with formula XII can be converted to the corresponding azaanion, followed by V-alkylation of compounds of formula VI (see above). The alkylation is performed in the presence of a strong base (e.g. butyl lithium, sodium amide, sodium hydride, lithium diisopropyl amide, lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide or others well-known to those of ordinary skill in the art) in an aprotic solvent such as toluene, tetrahydrofuran, dimethoxyethane, dioxane, diglyme at temperatures from between -20 °C and the reflux temperature of the solvent. Intermediates of formula XII are commercially available or may be prepared following the common procedures, e.g., by nucleophilic substitution of an Ar-NH 2 compound on a Ar-LG (where LG is a leaving group such as iodine, trifluoromethanesulphonyloxy, bromine, chlorine or fluorine). The nucleophilic substitution can be catalysed and is typically performed in the presence of a base (e.g. sodium carbonate, lithium diisopropylamide. sodium /erz-butoxide, etc.). Metal catalysts useful for nucleophilic substitution on aryl rings include, e.g., copper, copper (I) iodide or bromide or oxide (Tetrahedron, 1984, 40, 1433), nickel catalysts (J. Org. Chem., 1975, 40, 2267) palladium dichloride, palladium diacetate, palladium tetrakis, bis(diphenylphosphine)palladium dichloride, palladium dibenzylidene acetone, bis(diphenylphosphinoferrocene)palladium dichloride (Synlett, 1996, 329; J. Org. Chem., 1997, 62, 1568; 1997, 62, 1268; 1997, 62, 1264). Reactions can be performed at the melting temperature of the reactants, i.e., without solvent, or in a suitable solvent (e.g. dimethylacetamide, dimethylformamide, dioxane, toluene, tetrahydrofuran) at temperatures from room temperature to the reflux temperature of the solvent. The reactions can be facilitated by the use of a ligand (e.g. triphenyl phosphine or tri-o-tolylphosphine or bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene or 2,2'-bis(diphenylphosphino)-l,l'-binaphthyl or other commercially available phosphine ligands). An alternative procedure to synthesise compounds of formula I, especially useful when one or both of the aryl groups bear nitro groups, consists in arylating amino intermediates of formula XIII by the same procedure described for the preparation of intermediates of formula XII. described above. Intermediates with formula XIII are obtainable following conventional procedures well known to those skilled in the art, e.g., by alkylating an anilino derivative Ar-NH 2 with an appropriate compound of formula VI in a high boiling solvent (e.g. «-butanol) or at the melting temperature of the reactants. Alternatively, if the aryl moiety is sufficiently activated to be susceptible to nucleophilic aromatic substitution, compounds of formula XIII can be prepared by reacting an Ar-LG (where LG is defined as above) with an appropriate ω-aminoalkylpiperazine derivative. The reaction can be uncatalyzed and performed at the melting temperature of the reactants without solvent, or it can be done in a suitable solvent (e.g. rc-butanol, dimethylformamide, dimethylacetamide) at temperatures between room temperature and the reflux temperature of the solvent. The reaction can also be catalysed by a metal, as in the preparation of intermediates XII, described above. When B is aryl or heteroaryl-lower alkylene, the above-described reaction procedures for the preparation of compounds of formula I can be employed, or, alternatively, the synthesis can be performed using piperazine derivatives where B is a protecting group (e.g. tert-butoxycarbonyl, benzyloxycarbonyl, benzyl or other amino protecting groups, described in Greene, "Protective Groups in Organic Synthesis", Wiley Interscience, New York, 1991). Applying the same general synthetic methods described above, compounds of formula I, where B is a protecting group, are obtained. Simple and conventional deprotection procedures allow the preparation of compounds with the formula XIV, below, which can be alkylated with an appropriate alkyl or heteroalkyl halide to afford compounds of the invention. EXAMPLE 1 l-(3.3-diphenylpropyl)-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine hvdrochloride Step a) 1 -(3.3 -diphenylpropionyl)-4-(2-methoxyphenviy piperazine To a solution of 1.13 g of 3,3-diphenylpropionic acid and 1.06 g of l-(2-methoxyphenyl)- piperazine in 25 ml of dimethylformamide at a temperature within the range of 0-5°C, were added, in succession, 0.9 ml of 93% diethyl cyanophosphonate and 0.77 ml of triethylamine under stirring. The resultant solution was then stirred at room temperature for 5 h, poured into 250 ml of water and extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic phase was then washed with water, dried on anhydrous sodium sulphate, and evaporated to dryness under vacuum. The resultant oily residue was then purified by flash- chromatography (chloroform : ethyl acetate 9 : 1). This procedure afforded the title compound (100%). Η-NMR (CDC1 3 , δ) : 7.15 - 7.35 (m, 10H, phenyl protons); 6.75 - 7.05 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs); 4.69 (t, IH, CH); 3.85 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 3.67 - 3.77 (m, 2H, (CH(H)) 2 NC(O)equatorial); 3.50-3.60 (m, 2H, (CH(H)) 2 NC(O)axial) ;3.09 (d, 2H, CH 2 ) ; 2.83 - 2.93 (m, 2H, piperazine protons); 2.67 - 2.77 (m, 2H, piperazine protons). Step b) 1 -(3, 3 -diphenylpropyl -4-(2-methoxyphenyiy piperazine hydrochloride 0.44 g of lithium aluminium hydride was added under stirring at room temperature to a solution of 2.0 g of l-(3,3-diphenylpropionyl)-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine, prepared as described above, in 45 ml of anhydrous tetrahydrofuran. The reaction mixture was stirred at room temperature for 24 hours, and then at reflux for 2.5 hours. The mixture was cooled. 5 ml of ethyl acetate was added cautiously, followed by 5 ml of ethanol. Next, the mixture was poured into 225 ml of water, and extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic phase was washed with water, dried on anhydrous sodium sulphate, and evaporated to dryness in vacuo. The crude product thus obtained was purified by flash chromatography (petroleum ether - ethyl acetate 7 : 3). The residue obtained from the evaporation of the recovered fractions was then dissolved in ethyl acetate, and to the resultant solution was added 1 molar equivalent of 2N ethanolic hydrogen chloride. Filtration afforded 0.83 g (39%o) of the title product. Η-NMR (CDCI 3 , δ): 12.75 - 13.10 (br, IH, NH + ); 7.15 - 7.35 (m, 10H, phenyl CHs); 6.80 - 7.12 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs); 3.99 (t, IH, CH); 3.85 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 3.38 - 3.70 (m, 6H, piperazine protons, CH^NH * ); 2.85 - 3.15 (m, 4H, piperazine protons); 2.65 - 2.82 (m, 2H, CFbCH). EXAMPLE 2 l-(3,3-diphenylpropyiy4-r5-(2.3-dihydro-1.4-benzodioxinvDl-piperazine methanesulphonate Step a) l-(3,3-diphenylpropionvO-4-[ " 5-(2.3-dihydro-l ,4-benzodioxinyl)] -piperazine This product was obtained by the method described in Example 1 , step a) save that the 1 - (2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine was replaced here by l-[5-(2,3-dihydro-l,4-benzodioxinyl)- piperazine. The obtained crude product was purified by flash chromatography (chloroform : ethyl acetate 8 : 2). Yield : 85%. Η-NMR (CDCI 3 , δ): 7.15 -7.35 (m, 10H, phenyl CHs); 6.74 (dd, IH, benzodioxane H7); 6.60 (dd, IH, benzodioxane H6); 6.40 (dd, IH, benzodioxane H8); 4.68 (t, IH, CH); 4.15 - 4.35 (m, 4H. OCH 2 CH 2 O): 3.65 - 3.75 (m, 2H, (CH(H)) 2 NC(0)equatorial); 3.45 - 3.55 (m. 2H. (CH(H}) 2 NC(0)axial); 3.10 (d. 2H. CH 2 C(O)); 2.85 - 2.95 (m, 2H, piperazine protons); 2.65 - 2.75 (m, 2H, piperazine protons). Step b) 1 -(3.3-diphenylpropyπ-4-[5-(2.3-dihydro- 1 ,4-benzodioxinyl)l-piperazine methanesulphonate This product was obtained by the method described in Example 1 , step b) except that 1 - (3,3-diphenylpropionyl)-4-[5-(2,3-dihydro-l,4-benzodioxinyl)]-piperazine, prepared as above described was employed in place of l-(3,3-diphenylpropionyl)-4-(2- methoxyphenyl)-piperazine. The residue from column chromatography was dissolved in ethyl acetate, followed by the addition of one molar equivalent of methanesulphonic acid (0.5 M solution, in ethyl acetate). After maintaining the resultant solution overnight at 3°C, the crystallised title product was recovered by filtration. M.p.l94-195°C. . Yield : 21%. Η-NMR (DMSO- J, δ) : 9.35 - 9.55 (br, IH, NIT): 7.12 - 7.40 (m, 10H, phenyl CHs); 6.75 (dd, IH, benzodioxane H7); 6.50 - 6.58 (2dd. 2H, benzodioxane H6, H8); 4.18 - 4.28 (m, 4H, OCH 2 CH 2 O); 4.05 (t, IH, CH); 3.45 - 3.68 (m, 4H, piperazine protons); 2.80 - 3.30 (m, 6H, piperazine protons, CHCH 2 CH 2 ); 2.45 - 2.55 (m, 2H, CHCP CH,); 2.30 (s, 3H, CH 3 S). EXAMPLE 3 3-r3.3-to-(4-nitrophenyl)propyl1-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine dihvdrochloride-0.8 H 2 O Step a) l-[3,3-6 ^-(4-nitrophenyl N )-propionyll-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine This product was obtained by the method described in Example 1 , step a) except that 3,3- diphenylpropionic acid was replaced here by 3,3- W(4-nitrophenyl)-propionic acid (prepared in accordance with the method supplied by Pfeiffer et al, Annalen 1983, 557, 149). In addition, extraction was carried out here with chloroform rather than ethyl acetate. The obtained crude was purified by crystallisation from 80% ethanol. The obtained solid (48%) melted at 159-163°C. 1H-NMR (CDCI 3 , δ): 8.18 (dd, 4H, nitrophenyl H3, 5); 7.42 (dd, 4H, nitrophenyl H2, 6); 6.80 - 7.14 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs); 4.97 (t, IH, CH); 3.86 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 3.67 - 3.78 (m, 2H, CHC b); 3.58 - 3.67 (m, 2H, CON(CHH) 2 equatorials); 3.16 (d, 2H, CON(CHH) 2 axials); 2.90 - 3.07 (m, 4H, remaining piperazine protons). Step b) l-[3.3- 4-nitrophenyl)propyl1-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine dihydrochloride-0.8 H z O To a solution of 0.49 g of l-[3,3-6w-(4-nitrophenyl)-propionyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)- piperazine in 6 ml of anhydrous tetrahydrofuran. stirred under a nitrogen atmosphere, was added, at a temperature of 0-5°C, 1.25 ml of borane-dimethyl sulphide (2 M solution, in tetrahydrofuran). The obtained mixture was then refluxed for 4 h, followed by cooling to 0°C and by the addition of 1 ml of methanol, and, subsequently, 0.5 h of stirring within the temperature range 20-25°C. Afterwards, 0.5 ml of 4N isopropanolic hydrogen chloride was added. The resultant mixture was then refluxed for 1 hour, diluted with 20 ml of methanol, and evaporated to dryness in vacuo. The residue was taken up with 10 ml of water, and the resultant mixture was rendered basic by the addition of IN sodium hydroxide. This was followed by extraction with 3 x 5 ml of chloroform. The combined organic phases were then washed with water, dried over anhydrous sodium sulphate, and evaporated to dryness under vacuum. The residue was then dissolved in 18 ml methanol, followed by acidification of the obtained solution with excess 4N isopropanolic hydrogen chloride. After 3 hours at 0°C, the crystallised title product was recovered by filtration, affording 0.31 g (55.7%) of crystals melting at 191-194°C, and containing 0.8 mol of water. Η-NMR (CDC1 3 , δ): 1 1.25 - 11.45 (br, IH, NH + ); 8.20 (dd, 4H, nitrophenyl H3, 5); 7.70 (dd, 4H, nitrophenyl H2, 6); 6.85 - 7.07 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs); 5.85 - 6.18 (br, 2.6H, H 2 O and NH + ); 4.54 (t, IH, CH); 3.77 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 3.55 - 3.65 (m, 4H, piperazine protons); 3.07-3.25 (m, 4H, piperazine protons); 2.90 - 3.07 (m, 2H, CHCH 2 CH 2 N); 2.63 - 2.80 (m, 2H, CHCH 2 CH 2 N). EXAMPLE 4 l-[3,3-to-(4-methoxyphenyl propyl " [-4-f2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine dihvdrochloride. Step a) l-r3.3-ά/Λ , -(4-methoxyphenyl ' )propionyll-4-(2-methoxyphenyl ' )-piperazine dihvdrochloride This product was obtained in accordance with the method described in Example 1 , step a), except that 3,3-iw-(4-methoxyphenyl)-propionic acid (prepared in accordance with the method supplied by Klem , L., inJ Org. Chem.1958, 23, 344) was used in place of 3,3- diphenylpropionic acid. In addition, the extraction was carried out here with diethyl ether, instead of ethyl acetate, and the obtained extract, following its drying on anhydrous sodium sulphate, was acidified with hydrochloric acid (3N solution, in diethyl ether). The precipitate was then recovered by filtration and recrystallised from acetone. The title product (65.5%) melted at 175-179°C. Η-NMR (DMSO-^ 6 , δ) : 9.50 (br, IH, NH + ); 7.15 - 7.25 (m, 4H, AA' 4-me - thoxyphenyl CHs of the AA'BB* system); 6.88 - 7.25 (m, 4H, 2-methoxyphenyl CHs); 6.76 - 6.85 (m, 4H, BB' 4-methoxyphenyl CHs of the AA'BB' system); 4.38 (t, IH, CH); 3.82 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 2.88 - 3.15 (m. 6H, piperazine protons, C(O)CH 2 ). Step b 1 -r3.3-6 j , -(4-methoχyphenyl -propyll-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine dihvdrochloride This product was obtained in accordance with the procedure described in Example 3, step b), save that l-[3,3-δw-(4-methoxyphenyl)-propionyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine was employed here in place of l-[3,3-άw-(4-nitrophenyl)-propionyl]-4-(2- methoxyphenyl)-piperazine. In addition, extraction was carried out here with ethyl acetate rather than chloroform. The obtained residue was dissolved in diethyl ether; then, after treatment with charcoal, the resultant solution was acidified with excess hydrochloric acid (3N solution, in diethyl ether). After 3 h, the precipitate was recovered by filtration. The title product melted at 163-171°C. 1H-NMR (OMSO-d 6 , δ) : 8.80 - 8.90 (br, 2H, NH + ); 7.18 - 7.30 (m, 4H, AA' 4- methoxyphenyl CHs of the AA'BB' system); 6.80 - 7.05 (m, 8H, 2-methoxyphenyl CHs and BB' 4-methoxyphenyl CHs of the AA'BB' system); 3.92 (t, IH, CH); 3.78 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 3.71 (s, 6H, 2 OCH 3 ); 3.35 - 3.62 (m, 4H, piperazine protons); 3.03 - 3.25 (m. 4H, piperazine protons); 2.85 - 3.03 (m, 2H, CHbCH.CH); 2.42 - 2.52 (m, 2H, EXAMPLE 5 l-[ " iV-.V-6/_s , -(2-pyridyl -2-aminoethvn-4-( , 2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine hydrochloride To a solution of 1.71 g of έw-(2-pyridyl)amine in 50 ml of toluene, under stirring at room temperature, was added 0.55 g of 95%) sodium amide, followed by 2.54 g of l-(2- chloroethyl)-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine. The reaction mixture was refluxed for 24 hours and then cooled to room temperature. It was carefully diluted with 10 ml of methanol and then stirred for 15 minutes. 20 ml of water and 20 ml of ethyl acetate were added. Then, after 10 minutes further stirring, phase separation was carried out, and the aqueous phase was subsequently re-extracted with ethyl acetate. The combined organic phases were then washed with water, dried on sodium sulphate, and then evaporated to complete dryness under vacuum. The crude residue was then purified by flash chromatography (petroleum ether : ethyl acetate : 2.2N methanolic ammonia, gradient from 6 : 4 : 0.2 to 4 : 6 : 0.2). The recovered fractions were then evaporated to complete dryness, yielding 2.51 g (64.5%) of the title product as a base. This material was subsequently dissolved in 45 ml of ethyl acetate, to which was added 1 molar equivalent of 1M ethanolic hydrogen chloride. Overnight resting at 0°C afforded the title product, in crystalline form, which melted at 218-220°C. 1H-NMR DMSO-d 6 , δ): 8.40 (dd, 2H, pyridine H6); 7.74 (ddd, 2H, pyridine H4); 7.28 (dd, 2H, pyridine H3); 6.90 - 7.15 (m, 6H, pyridine H5, phenyl CHs); 4.58 (t, 2H. PyNCH 2 ); 4.35 - 5.15 (br, IH, NH + ); 3.80 (s, 3H. OCH 3 ); 2.95 - 3.35 (m, 10H, piperazine protons and PyNCH^H,). EXAMPLE 6 l-[3-cvano-3.3-6 -(2-pyridyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenvπ-piperazine To a suspension of 0.21 g of 95% sodium amide in 2 ml of 1 ,2-dimethoxyethane was added dropwise a solution of 0.78 g of 2,2-^w-(2-pyridyl)-acetonitrile (prepared as described in Heterocycles 1995, 40, 757) in 8 ml of 1 ,2-dimefhoxyethane, with stirring under a nitrogen atmosphere at room temperature. After 1 h, there were added dropwise, 1.02 g of l-(2-chloroethyl)-4-(2-methoxy-phenyl)-piperazine dissolved in 4 ml of 1,2- dimethoxyethane. The resultant reaction mixture was then refluxed for 20 h, followed by cooling to room temperature, and was then poured cautiously into 40 g of ice, diluted with water, and extracted with ethyl acetate. The combined organic phases were then washed with water, dried on anhydrous sodium sulphate, and then evaporated thoroughly under vacuum. The obtained crude was then purified by flash chromatography (ethyl acetate : methanol, gradient from 10 : 0 to 9 : 1). The recovered fractions were then evaporated to complete dryness, affording 1.13 g of the title product (68.4%). Η-NMR (CDC1 3 , δ): 8.60 (dd, 2H, pyridine H6); 7.58 - 7.73 (m. 4H, pyridine H3, 4); 7.22 (ddd, 2H, pyridine H5); 6.83 - 7.03 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs); 3.84 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 2.85 - 3.08 (m, 6H, piperazine protons, CCH C^N); 2.55 - 2.70 (m, 6H, piperazine protons, CCH?CH 7 N). EXAMPLE 7 l- r 3-cvano-3-phenyl-3-(2-pyridyl>propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenvD-piperazine dihvdrochloride This product was prepared as described in Example 6 except that 2,2-άw-(2-pyridyl)- acetonitrile was replaced here with 2-phenyl-2-(2-pyridyl)-acetonitrile (prepared as described in Helv. Chim. Acta 1944, 27, 1748). The obtained crude was purified by flash chromatography (ethyl acetate : petroleum ether 6 : 4). After subsequent evaporation of the recovered fractions, this procedure afforded the title product as a base (86%). This product was subsequently dissolved in ethanol, to which was then added excess 5M isopropanolic hydrogen chloride. Finally, after overnight resting at room temperature, the title product was recovered by filtration and melted at 228-230°C. 1H-NMR (CDCI 3 , δ) : 11.50 - 11.75 (br, IH, NH÷); 8.65 (dd, 2H, pyridine H6); 8.25 - 8.60 (br, IH, NH + ); 8.40 (ddd, 2H, pyridine H4); 7.45 - 7.60 (m, 7H, pyridine H3, 5, phenyl CHs); 6.85 - 7.10 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs); 3.77 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 3.00 - 3.75 (m, 12H, piperazine protons and CH 2 CH 2 ). EXAMPLE 8 l-r3.3-6/_y-{2-pyridv0-propyl]-4-{2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine A mixture of 2.44 g of l-[3-cyano-3,3-έw-(2-pyridyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)- piperazine, prepared as described in Example 6, and 12 ml of 70% sulphuric acid was stirred for 1.5 h at 125°C. The reaction mixture was then cooled to room temperature, carefully poured into 100 g of ice, diluted with water, alkalinised with 35%) sodium hydroxide, and extracted with ethyl acetate (3 x 40 ml). The combined organic phases were then washed with water, dried on anhydrous sodium sulphate, and evaporated to complete dryness under vacuum. The obtained crude was purified by flash chromatography (ethyl acetate : 2.2N methanolic ammonia 9.6 : 0.4). The recovered fractions were then evaporated to complete dryness, yielding 1.87 g of the title product (82%). Η-NMR (CDC1 3 , δ) : 8.55 (dd, 2H, pyridine H6); 7.58 (ddd, 2H, pyridine H4); 7.36 (dd, 2H, pyridine H3); 7.10 (ddd, 2H, pyridine H5); 6.79 - 7.03 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs); 4.37 (t, IH, CH); 3.84 (s, 3H. OCH 3 ); 2.95 - 3.12 (m, 4H, piperazine protons); 2.55 - 2.73 (m, 4H, piperazine protons); 2.30 - 2.55 (m, 4H, CCH 2 CH 2 N). EXAMPLE 9 l-r3-phenyl-3-f2-pyridviypropyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine and EXAMPLE 10 l-r3-carbamoyl-3-phenyl-3-(2-pyridyl)propyl]-4-(2-methoχyphenvD piperazine A mixture of 1.26 g of l-[3-cyano-3-phenyl-3-(2-pyridyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)- piperazine, prepared as described in Example 7, and 6.2 ml of 70% sulphuric acid was stirred for 40 min at 125°C. The reaction mixture was then cooled to room temperature, poured cautiously into 60 g of ice, diluted with water, alkalinised with 35%) sodium hydroxide, and extracted with ethyl acetate (2 x 60 ml). The combined organic phases were then washed with water and dried on anhydrous sodium sulphate, followed by evaporation to dryness under vacuum. The obtained crude was then purified by flash chromatography (ethyl acetate : petroleum ether : 2.7N methanolic ammonia gradient from 5 : 5 : 0.5 to 8: 2 : 0.5). Subsequent evaporation to dryness in vacuo of the less polar fractions afforded 0.25 g of the compound of Example 9. 1H-NMR (CDCI 3 , δ) : 8.59 (dd, IH, pyridine H6); 7.54 (ddd, IH, pyridine H4); 7.08 - 7.41 (m, 7H, pyridine H3, 5, phenyl CHs); 6.82 - 7.07 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs); 4.18 (t, IH, CHCH 2 ); 3.85 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 3.00 - 3.15 (m, 4H, piperazine protons); 2.25 - 2.73 (m, 8H, piperazine protons and CH 2 CH 2 ). The evaporation of the more polar fractions afforded 0.78g of the product of Example 10 as an oil. This was crystallised from acetonitrile, yielding, after filtration, 0.35 g of a solid meltins at 156-164°C. 1H-NMR (CDCI 3 , δ, ) : 9.20 - 9.40 (br, IH, CONH 2 ); 8.55 (dd, IH, pyridine H6); 7.60 (dd, IH, pyridine H4); 7.10 - 7.35 (m, 7H, pyridine H3, 5 , phenyl CHs); 6.80 - 7.05 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs); 5.60 - 5.75 (br, IH, CONH 2 ); 3.83 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 2.15 - 3.15 (m, 12H, piperazine protons and CH 2 CH 2 ). EXAMPLE 11 l-[N-(2-nitrophenyl)-N-(2-pyridviy2-aminoethyll-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine A mixture of 0.43 g of l-[N-(2-nitrophenyl)-2-aminoethyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)- piperazine (prepared as described in US 3472854), 0.19 g of 2-bromopyridine, 0.17 g of anhydrous potassium carbonate and 0.01 g of powdered copper was heated to 100°C, and maintained at that temperature for 3 hours. A further 0.138 g of 2-bromopyridine was added, and the mixture was heated to 160°C and maintained at that temperature for 24 hours. After cooling the mixture to room temperature and extraction with ethyl acetate (2 x 20 ml), the combined organic phases were then washed with water, dried on anhydrous sodium sulphate, and evaporated to dryness in vacuo. The obtained crude was purified by flash chromatography (ethyl acetate : petroleum ether 7 : 3). The recovered fractions, after evaporation to dryness, afforded 0.25 g of the title compound (52%). 1H-NMR (CDCI 3 , δ): 8.12 (dd, IH, pyridine H6); 7.98 (dd, IH, nitrophenyl H3); 7.52 - 7.70 (m, 2H, aromatics); 7.30 - 7.50 (m, 2H, aromatics); 6.79 - 7.03 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs); 6.65 (dd, IH, pyridine H5); 6.33 (dd, IH, pyridine H3); 4.08 (t, 2H, CH 2 NPy); 3.84 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 2.90 - 3.05 (m, 4H. piperazine protons); 2.80 (t, 2H, CH 2 CH 2 NPV); 2.60 - 2.75 (m, 4H, piperazine protons). EXAMPLE 12 l-r3-cvano-3-( " 2-nitrophenyl -3-phenylpropyll-4-(2-methoxyphenyl -piperazine Step a) 1 -f 3-cvano-3-phenylpropyl)-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine This product was synthesised by the method described in Example 6, but using phenylacetonitrile instead of 2,2-b w-(2-pyridyl)-acetonitrile, and toluene as solvent instead of 1,2-dimethoxyethane. The reaction mixture was stirred for 3.5 hours at 80°C. The crude was purified by flash chromatography (ethyl acetate : petroleum ether 6 : 4). The recovered fractions were then evaporated to dryness, yielding 0.96 g of the title compound (57.3%). 1H-NMR (CDCI 3 , δ): 7.35 - 7.45 (m, 5H, phenyl CHs); 6.79 - 7.03 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs); 4.08 (t, IH, CH); 3.86 (s, 3H. OCH 3 ); 3.05- 3.20 (m, 4H, piperazine protons); 2.38 - 2.70 (m, 6H, piperazine protons, 2H of CH 2 CH 2 ); 1.95 - 2.35 (m, 2H. 2H of CH 2 CH 2 ). Step b) 1 -r3-cvano-3-(2-nitrophenyl -3-phenylpropyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine A mixture of 0.24 g of l-(3-cyano-3-phenylpropyl)-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine, 0.11 g of 2-chloro-nitrobenzene, 0.5 ml of 50%) sodium hydroxide, 0.02 g of triethyl benzyl ammonium chloride, and 0.5 ml of toluene was stirred for 6 hours at 60°C. The mixture was then cooled to room temperature, diluted with 20 ml of water, and extracted with ethyl acetate (2 x 20 ml). The combined organic phases were washed with water, dried on anhydrous sodium sulphate, and evaporated to dryness under vacuum. The obtained crude material was purified by flash chromatography (ethyl acetate : petroleum ether 5 : 5). The recovered fractions were then evaporated to complete dryness, yielding 0.12 g of the title compound (36%). This was then dissolved in dichloromethane, evaporated to dryness under vacuum, and desiccated in vacuo (1 mmHg). M.p.61-64°C. Η-NMR (CDC1 3 , δ): 8.05 (dd, IH, nitrophenyl H3); 7.50 - 7.73 (m, 3H, nitrophenyl H 4, 5, 6 ); 7.20 - 7.35 (m, 5H, phenyl CHs); 6.79 - 7.03 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs); 3.84 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 2.95 - 3.15 (m, 5H, piperazine protons, CH(H)CH 2 N); 2.35 - 2.75 (m, 7H, piperazine protons, CHQDCIfcN). EXAMPLE 13 l-r3-carbamoyl-3-(2-nitrophenvπ-3-phenylpropyll-4-(2-methoxyphenyl -piperazine This product was obtained by of the method described in Example 8, but using l-[3-cyano- 3-(2-nitrophenyl)-3-phenylpropyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine, prepared as described in Example 12, in place of l-[3-cyano-3,3-6w-(2-pyridyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)- piperazine and heating for 105 minutes. After the usual work-up, the obtained crude was purified by flash chromatography (ethyl acetate : methanol 95 : 5). The recovered fractions were then evaporated to dryness, affording 0.1 g of the title compound as an oil (46%). 1H-NMR (CDCI 3 , δ): 7.75 - 7.82 (m, IH, nitrophenyl H3); 7.55 - 7.80 (m, IH, CONH 2 ); 7.25 - 7.50 (m, 7H, phenyl CHs, nitrophenyl H 4, 5 ); 7.05 - 7.15 (m, IH, nitrophenyl H6); 6.79 - 7.03 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs); 5.30 - 5.55 (m, IH, CONH 2 ); 3.84 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 3.00 - 3.15 (m, 4H, piperazine protons); 2.25 - 2.95 (m, 8H, piperazine protons, CH 2 CH 2 ). EXAMPLE 14 l-r3-hvdroxy-3.3-6/_s , -(2-pyridyl)-propyll-4-f2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine. 0.72 ml of a 2.5M solution of butyl lithium in hexane was added dropwise over a period of 5 minutes to a solution of 0.17 ml of 2-bromopyridine in 6 ml of tetrahydrofuran, stirred under a nitrogen atmosphere at a temperature of -50°C. After 6 minutes at -55°C, there was added dropwise, over a period of 10 min, a solution of 0.5 g of ethyl 3-[4-(2- methoxyphenyl)-l-piperazinyl]-propionate (prepared as described in DE 2555290) in 3 ml anhydrous tetrahydrofuran. Next, after keeping for 1.5 h at -50°C. the reaction was quenched by addition of a saturated ammonium chloride solution. The resultant mixture was then extracted with 2 x 50 ml of ethyl acetate. The combined organic phases were then washed with water, dried on anhydrous sodium sulphate, and evaporated to dryness in vacuo. The obtained crude was then purified by flash chromatography (ethyl acetate : 2.2N methanolic ammonia, 99 : 1). The recovered fractions were evaporated to dryness to give 0.11 g of the title compound (15%). 1H-NMR (CDC1 3 , δ): 8.56 (dd, 2H, pyridine H6); 7.79 (dd, 2H, pyridine H4); 7.64 (ddd, 2H, pyridine H3); 7.10 (ddd, 2H, pyridine H5); 6.85 - 7.03 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs); 3.84 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 2.95 - 3.12 (m, 4H, piperazine protons); 2.76 (t, 2H, C(OH)CH 2 CH 2 ); 2.55 - 2.75 (m, 4H, piperazine protons); 2.50 (t, 2H, C(OH)CH 2 CH 2 ). EXAMPLE 15 l- 3-cvano-3-(2-nitrophenvπ-3-(2-pyridyl)-propyll-4-(2-methoxyphenyl piperazine. Step a) 1 -r3-cvano-3-(2-pyridvD-propyll-4-(2-methoxyphenyl -piperazine This product was synthesised by the method described in Example 6, but replacing the 2,2- Z?w-(2-pyridyl)-acetonitrile with 2-(2-pyridyl)-acetonitrile and stirring at reflux for 3.5 hours. The obtained crude was then purified by flash chromatography (ethyl acetate). The recovered fractions were then evaporated to dryness. affording of the title compound (46.3%). Η-NMR (CDCI 3 , δ): 8.60 (dd, IH, pyridine H6); 7.75 (ddd. IH, pyridine H4); 7.45 (dd, IH, pyridine H3); 7.25 (ddd, IH, pyridine H5); 6.85-7.05 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs); 4.25 (dt, IH, CHCN), 3.85 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 3.05-3.15 (m, 4H, piperazine protons); 2.45 - 2.75 (m, 6H, piperazine protons and CHCH 2 CH 2 ); 2.15-2.35 (m, 2H, CHCH 2 CH 2 ). Step b l-r3-cvano-3-(2-nitrophenyl -3-(2-pyridyl -propyll-4-f2-methoxyphenviy piperazine A solution of 0.66 g of l-[3-cyano-3-(2-pyridyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine in 5 ml of 1,2-dimethoxyethane was added dropwise at room temperature to a suspension of 0.09 g of 95%> sodium amide in 2.5 ml of 1,2-dimethoxyethane. After 1.5 h, a solution of 0.23 ml of l-fluoro-2-nitrobenzene in 1 ml of 1 ,2-dimethoxyethane was added and the mixture was refluxed for 20 hours. After cooling to room temperature, the reaction mixture was cautiously poured into 20 ml of water and extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic layer was dried on anhydrous sodium sulphate and evaporated to dryness in vacuo. The obtained residue was purified by flash chromatography (ethyl acetate : petroleum ether 7 :3) to afford 0.2 g (23%) of the title compound. Η-NMR (CDCI 3 , δ): 8.50 (dd, IH, pyridine H6); 8.00 (ddd, IH, nitrophenyl H3); 7.65-7.70 (m, 3H, pyridine H4 and 2 CHs of nitrophenyl); 7.50-7.60 (m, 3H, pyridine H3 and 1 CH of nitrophenyl); 7.24 (ddd, IH, pyridine H5); 6.80-7.05 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs) ; 3.84 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 2.90-3.11 (m, 6H, piperazine protons and CCH 2 CH 2 ); 2.40 - 2.65 (m, 6H, piperazine protons and CHCH 2 CH 2 ). EXAMPLE 16 l-(4-lH-indolviy4-r3,3- 2-pyridylVpropyll-piperazine Step a) 3,3-6/.s-(2-pyridyl)-propionaldehyde dimethyl acetal This product was prepared as described in Example 5, with the exception that bis-(2- pyridyl)-amine was replaced by &z ' s-(2-pyridyl)-methane (prepared as described in Heterocycles 1995, 40, 757-776) and 2-bromoacetaldehyde dimethyl acetal was substituted for l-(2-chloroethyl)-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine. After 12.5 h at reflux the reaction mixture was worked-up as described above. The crude residue was purified by flash chromatography (ethyl acetate : petroleum ether : 2.2N methanolic ammonia 6:4:0.6) affording the title product (11%). 1H-NMR (CDCI 3 , δ) : 8.53 (dd, 2H, pyridine H6); 7.57 (ddd, 2H, pyridine H4); 7.33 (dd, 2H, pyridine H3); 7.10 (ddd, 2H, pyridine H5); 4.45 (t, IH, CH(OCH 3 ) 2 ); 4.20 (t, IH, CHC); 3.27 (s, 6H, OCH 3 ); 2.57 (dd, 2H, CH 2 ). Step b 3.3-Zu,s-C2-pyridyr)-propionaldehvde A solution of 1.86 g of 3,3-δw-(2-pyridyl)-propionaldehyde dimethyl acetal and 0.08 g of 1 ,4-dihydroquinone in 36 ml of 2 N HC1 was stirred at 80°C for 15 min, cooled to 0°C, diluted with 50 ml of dichloromethane and neutralised with 20% aq. sodium carbonate (pH =7-8). The organic layer was dried on anhydrous sodium sulphate and evaporated to dryness affording 1.15 g of crude title compound as a grey glassy solid, which was used in the next step without any further purification. Step c 1 -(A- 1 H-indolyl -4- [3.3 -ά s-f 2-pyridvQ-propy 11 -piperazine A mixture of 1.15 g of 3,3-άw-(2-pyridyl)-propionaldehyde, 1.2 g of 1 -(4-indolyl)- piperazine (prepared as described in EP 0138280), 1.24 ml of acetic acid, 1.71 g of sodium triacetoxyborohydride and 85 ml of 1 ,2-dichloroethane was stirred at room temperature for 24 hours. Afterwards, it was diluted with water and alkalinised with sodium carbonate. The organic layer was dried on anhydrous sodium sulphate and evaporated to dryness to give 1.53 g of crude. This was purified by flash chromatography (ethyl acetate : 2.2N methanolic ammonia, gradient from 9.4:0.6 to 9.2:0.8) giving 0.28 g (13%) of the title product as an oil. 1H-NMR (CDCI 3 , δ) : 8.55 (dd, 2H, pyridine H6); 8.25 (bs, IH, NH), 7.52 (ddd, 2H, pyridine H4 ); 7.38 (dd, 2H, pyridine H3); 7.02-7.17 (m, 5H, pyridine H5, indole H2, 6, 7); 6.50-6.60 (m, 2H, indole H3, 5); 4.40 (t, IH, CH); 3.15-3.30 (m, 4H, piperazine protons); 2.60 - 2.75 (m, 4H, piperazine protons); 2.35 - 2.60 (m, 4H, CCH 2 CH 2 N). EXAMPLE 17 l-f3-carbamoyl-3-(2-nitrophenyl -3-(2-pyridvπ-propyll-4-(2-methoxyphenvπ-piperazine This compound was prepared as described in Example 10, but using l-[3-cyano-3-(2- nitrophenyl)-3-(2-pyridyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine, prepared as described in Example 15, in place l-[3-cyano-3-phenyl-3-(2-pyridyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)- piperazine and stirring the reaction mixture at 140°C for 2.5 h. The reaction mixture was then cooled to room temperature, diluted with water, alkalinised with 35% sodium hydroxide and extracted with dichloromethane. The organic layer was washed with water and dried on anhydrous sodium sulphate, followed by evaporation to dryness under vacuum. The obtained crude was then purified by flash chromatography (ethyl acetate- methanol 9.5:0.5). Subsequent evaporation to dryness in vacuo of the less polar fractions afforded the title compound (37%) as a solid melting at 63-72°C. Η-NMR (CDCI 3 , δ): 8.50 (dd, IH, pyridine H6); 8.00 (ddd, IH, nitrophenyl H3); 7.65-7.70 (m, 3H, pyridine H4 and 2 CHs of nitrophenyl); 7.50-7.60 (m, 3H, pyridine H3 and 1 CH of nitrophenyl); 7.24 (ddd, IH, pyridine H5); 6.80-7.05 (m, 4H, methoxyphenyl CHs) ; 3.84 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ); 2.90-3.11 (m, 6H, piperazine protons and CCH 2 CH 2 ); 2.40 - 2.65 (m, 6H, piperazine protons and CCH 2 CH 2 ). EXAMPLE 18 Effects on Volume-Induced Rhythmic Bladder Voiding Contractions in Anaesthetised Rats A. Methods: Female Sprague Dawley rats weighing 225-275 g (Crl: CDo BR, Charles River Italia) were used. The animals were housed with free access to food and water and were maintained on a forced 12 h alternating light-dark cycle at 22-24°C for at least one week, except during the experiment. The activity on the rhythmic bladder voiding contractions was evaluated according to the method of Dray (J. Pharmacol. Methods, 13: 157, 1985), with some modifications as in Guarneri (Pharmacol. Res., 27:173, 1993). Briefly, rats were anaesthetised by subcutaneous injection of 1.25 g/kg (5 ml/kg) urethane, after which the urinary bladder was catheterised via the urethra using PE 50 polyethylene tubing filled with physiological saline. The catheter was tied in place with a ligature around the external urethral orifice and was connected with conventional pressure transducers (Statham P23 ID/P23 XL). The intravesical pressure was displayed continuously on a chart recorder (Battaglia Rangoni KV 135 with DC1/TI amplifier). The bladder was then filled via the recording catheter by incremental volumes of warm (37°C) saline until reflex bladder voiding contractions occurred (usually 0.8-1.5 ml). For intravenous (i.v.) injection of bioactive compounds, PE 50 polyethylene tubing filled with physiological saline was inserted into the jugular vein. From the cystometrogram, the number of contractions recorded 15 min before (basal values) and after treatment, as well as the mean amplitude of these contractions (mean height of the peaks in mm Hg) was evaluated. Since most compounds produced an effect that was relatively rapid in onset and led to a complete cessation of bladder contractions, bioactivity was conveniently estimated by measuring the duration of bladder quiescence (i.e., the duration of time during which no contractions occurred). Moreover, the number of animals tested showing a reduction in the number of contractions >30% of that observed in the basal period, was recorded. To compare the potency of the tested compounds for inhibiting bladder voiding contractions, equieffective doses which resulted in a disappearance time of 10 minutes (ED 10min ) were computed by means of least square linear regression analysis. Also computed in this manner were extrapolated doses which induced a reduction of the number of contractions of greater than 30% in 50% of treated rats (ED 50 , frequency) by the method of Bliss (Bliss C.I., Quart. J. Pharm. Pharmacol. U , 192-216, 1938). After the suppressive effects of drug injection wore off, the height of the contractile peaks was compared with the height of the peaks previously recorded after the control intravenous administration of vehicle. The potency of the tested compounds (ED 50 value: the extrapolated doses inducing a 30% reduction of amplitude of the contractions in 50% of treated rats) was evaluated on a quantal basis by the method of Bliss (Bliss C.I., Quart. J. Pharm. Pharmacol. il, 192-216, 1938). B. Results The rapid distension of the urinary bladder in urethane-anaesthetised rats produced a series of rhythmic bladder voiding contractions whose characteristics have been described and are well-known in the art (Maggi et al.. Brain Res., 380:83, 1986; Maggi, et al., J " . Pharmacol. Exp. Ther., 230:500, 1984). The frequency of these contractions is related to the sensory afferent arm of reflex micturition and to the integrity of the micturition centre, while their amplitude is a property of the efferent arm of the reflex. In this model system, compounds that act mainly on the CNS (such as morphine) cause a block in voiding contraction, whereas drugs that act at the level of the detrusor muscle, such as oxybutynin, lower the amplitude of the bladder contractions. The results obtained after administration of prior art compounds and compounds of the invention are shown in Table 1. TABLE 1 Effects on rhythmic bladder voiding contractions after intravenous administration. Data represent the EDjo mm values (the extrapolated dose inducing 10 min of disappearance of the contractions); the ED 50 values (the extrapolated doses inducing a reduction of the number of contractions >30% in 50% of treated rats) (frequency), and the ED 50 values (the extrapolated doses inducing 30% reduction of amplitude of the contractions in 50% of treated rats) (amplitude). n.a. = not active; no significant reduction of the height of peaks All the compounds of the present invention that were tested were markedly more potent than flavoxate, oxybutynin and imipramine in inhibiting voiding contractions, as illustrated by the EDιo m and ED 50 values obtained. In contrast to oxybutynin, and like flavoxate and imipramine, the compounds of the invention did not affect the amplitude of the contractions, indicating no impairment of bladder contractility. EXAMPLE 19 Radioreceptor Binding to 5-HT^ and other different neurotransmitter binding sites A. Methods: Recombinant human 5HT IA receptors: Genomic clone G-21 coding for the human 5-HT !A serotonergic receptor is stably transfected in a human cell line (HeLa). HeLa cells were grown as monolayers in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM), supplemented with 10 % fetal calf serum and gentamicin (100 mg/ml), 5%o CO 2 at 37°C. Cells were detached from the growth flask at 95%) confluence by a cell scraper and were lysed in ice-cold 5 mM Tris and 5 mM EDTA buffer (pH 7.4). Homogenates were centrifuged at 40000 x g x 20 min and pellets were resuspended in a small volume of ice-cold 5 mM Tris and 5 mM EDTA buffer (pH 7.4) and immediately frozen and stored at -70°C until use. On the day of experiment, cell membranes were resuspended in binding buffer: 50 mM Tris HC1 (pH 7.4), 2.5 mM MgCl 2 , lOμM pargyline (Fargin et al., Nature 335, 358-360, 1988). Membranes were incubated in a final volume of 1 ml for 30 min at 30°C with 0.2 - 1 nM [ 3 H]8-OH-DPAT, in absence or presence of competing drugs; non-specific binding was determined in the presence of 10 μM 5-HT. The incubation was stopped by addition of ice-cold Tris-HCl buffer and rapid filtration through 0.2% polyethyleneimine-pretreated Whatman GF/B or Schleicher & Schuell GF52 filters. Native 5-HT 2A serotonergic receptors (from animal tissues) Binding studies on native 5-HT 2A serotonergic receptors (Craig A. and Kenneth J., Life Sci. 38, 117-127, 1986) were carried out in membranes of rat cerebral cortex. Male Sprague Dawley rats (200-3 OOg, SD Harlan/Nossan, Italy) were killed by cervical dislocation and cerebral cortexes were excised and immediately frozen in liquid nitrogen and stored at -70°C until use. Tissues were homogenised (2x20 sec) in 50 volumes of cold 50 mM Tris-HCl buffer pH 7.4, using a Polytron homogenise (speed 7). Homogenates were centrifuged at 49000xg for 10 min, resuspended in 50 volumes of the same buffer, incubated at 37°C for 15 min and centrifuged and resuspended twice more. The final pellets were suspended in 100 volumes of 50 mM Tris-HCl buffer pH 7.7. Membranes were incubated in a final volume of 1 ml for 20 min at 37°C with 0.7-1.3 nM [ 3 H]ketanserin (5-HT 2A receptors), in absence or presence of competing drugs. Nonspecific binding was determined in the presence of 2 μM ketanserin. The incubation was stopped by addition of ice-cold 50 mM Tris-HCl buffer and rapid filtration through 0.2% polyethyleneimine pretreated Whatman GF/B or Schleicher & Schuell GF52 filters. The filters are then washed with ice-cold buffer and the radioactivity retained on the filters was counted by liquid scintillation spectrometry. Native (animal tissues) a 1 adrenergic receptors Binding studies on native cq adrenergic receptors were carried out in membranes of rat cerebral cortex. Male Sprague Dawley rats (200-3 OOg, Charles River, Italy) were killed by cervical dislocation and cerebral cortexes were dissected and immediately frozen and stored at -70°C until use. Tissue was homogenised (2x20 sec) in 50 volumes of cold 50 mM Tris-HCl buffer pH 7.4, using a Polytron homogenise (speed 7). Homogenates were centrifuged at 48000xg for 10 min, resuspended in 50 volumes of the same buffer, incubated at 37°C for 15 min and centrifuged and resuspended twice more. The final pellets were suspended in 100 volumes of 50 mM Tris-HCl buffer pH 7.4, containing lOμM pargyline and 0.1% ascorbic acid. Membranes were incubated in a final volume of 1 ml for 30 min at 25°C with 0.1-0.5 nM [ HJprazosin, in the absence or presence of competing drugs; non-specific binding was determined in the presence of 10 μM phentolamine. The incubation was stopped by addition of ice-cold 50 mM Tris-HCl buffer and rapid filtration through 0.2% polyethyleneimine-pretreated Whatman GF/B or Schleicher & Schuell GF52 filters. The filters were then washed with ice-cold buffer and the radioactivity retained on the filters counted by liquid scintillation spectrometry. B. Results: The inhibition of specific binding of the radioligands by the tested drugs was analysed to estimate the IC 50 value by using the non-linear curve-fitting program Allfit (De Lean et al., Am. J. Physiol. 235, E97-E102, 1978). The IC 50 value is converted to an affinity constant (Ki) by the equation of Cheng & Prusoff (Cheng, Y.C.; Prusoff, W.H. Biochem. Pharmacol. 22, 3099-3108, 1973). The results are shown in Table 2. These results indicate that the compounds of the present invention have a high affinity for the 5-HT 1A receptor, and are selective for this receptor relative to their affinity for the 5-HT 2A receptor and a adrenoceptors. TABLE 2 Binding affinity for the 5-HT 1A receptor and other neurotransmitter binding sites

Claims: CLAIMS 1. A compound of the formula: wherein each of Ar and Ar' independently represents an aryl group, a substituted aryl group other than a halophenyl group, a heteroaryl group containing not more than one ring nitrogen atom, or a substituted heteroaryl group containing not more than one ring nitrogen atom, Y represents a nitrogen atom or a CH, C-OH, C-CN or C-CONH 2 group, R represents a hydrogen atom or a lower alkyl group, B represents a substituted aryl group, a heteroaryl group other than a pyrimidinyl or quinazolinyl group, or a substituted heteroaryl group other than a substituted pyrimidinyl or a substituted quinazolinyl group, with the provisos that: when Y represents a C-OH group, Ar and Ar' do not simultaneously represent thienyl groups, and when Y represents a C-CN or C-CONH 2 group and B represents a 2-methoxyphenyl group, Ar and Ar' do not simultaneously represent phenyl groups; or an enantiomer, diastereomer, N-oxide, crystalline form, hydrate or pharmaceutically acceptable salt of such a compound. 2. A compound according to claim 1 in which each of Ar and Ar' independently represents a phenyl, 2-nitrophenyl, 4-nitrophenyl, 4-methoxyphenyl or 2-pyridyl group. 3. A compound according to claim 1 or claim 2 in which B represents a 2-methoxyphenyl, 5-(2,3-dihydro-l,4-benzodioxinyl) or 4-lH-indolyl group. 4. A compound according to any preceding claim in which Y represents a C-CN, C-OH or CH group. 5. A compound according to any preceding claim in which R represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group. 6. Any one of the following compounds: l-(3,3-diphenylpropyl)-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine; l-(3,3-diphenylpropyl)-4-[5-(2,3-dihydro-l,4-benzodioxinyl)]-piperazine; l-[3,3-bis-(4-nitrophenyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine; l-[3,3-bis-(4-methoxyphenyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine; l-[N-N-bis-(2-pyridyl)-2-aminoethyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine; l-[3-cyano-3,3-bis-(2-pyridyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine; l-[3-cyano-3-phenyl-3-(2-pyridyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine; l-[3,3-bis-(2-pyridyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine; l-[3-phenyl-3-(2-pyridyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine; l-[3-carbamoyl-3-phenyl-3-(2-pyridyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine; l-[N-(2-nitrophenyl)-N-(2-pyridyl)-2-aminoethyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine; 1 -[3 -cyano-3 -(2-nitrophenyl)-3 -phenylpropyl] -4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine; l-[3-carbamoyl-3-(2-nitrophenyl)-3-phenylpropyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine; l-[3-hydroxy-3,3-bis-(2-pyridyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine; l-[3-cyano-3-(2-nitrophenyl)-3-(2-pyridyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine; 1 -(4- 1 H-indolyl)-4-[3 ,3-bis-(2-pyridyl)-propyl]-piperazine; l-[3-carbamoyl-3-(2-nitrophenyl)-3-(2-pyridyl)-propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazine; or an enantiomer, diastereomer, N-oxide, crystalline form, hydrate or pharmaceutically acceptable salt of such a compound. 7. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound according to any preceding claim in admixture with a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent or carrier. 8. Use of a compound of the general formula wherein each of Ar, Ar' and B independently represents an aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl or substituted heteroaryl group, Y represents a nitrogen atom or a CH, C-OH, C-CN or C-CONH 2 group, R represents a hydrogen atom or a lower alkyl group, Z represents a methylene or ethylene group, and Z' represents a valence bond or a methylene or ethylene group, or of an enantiomer, diastereomer, crystalline form, N-oxide, hydrate or pharmaceutically acceptable salt of such a compound, for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment of neuromuscular dysfunction of the lower urinary tract in a mammal. 9. Use according to claim 8 of a compound according to any of claims 1 to 6. 10. Use according to claim 8 or claim 9 for the preparation of a medicament which contains a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent or carrier. 11. Use according to any of claims 8 to 10 for the preparation of a medicament in a form suitable for oral administration. 12. Use according to claim 11 for the preparation of a medicament which contains from 50 to 400 mg of the compound in single dose form.

Inventors: LEONARDI AMEDEO, MOTTA GIANNI, RIVA CARLO, TESTA RODOLFO, LEONARDI, AMEDEO, MOTTA, GIANNI, RIVA, CARLO, TESTA, RODOLFO
Applicants: RECORDATI CHEM PHARM, RECORDATI INDUSTRIA CHIMICA E FARMACEUTICA S.P.A., RECORDATI S.A., CHEMICAL AND PHARMACEUTICAL COMPANY
Application year: 1998
Main classification: C07D295
IPC codes: A61K31, A61P13, A61P25, A61P43, C07D213, C07D295, C07D319, C07D401