Synthesis of cisapride, a gastrointestinal stimulant derived from cis‐4‐amino‐3‐methoxypiperidine

A novel synthon, 3‐hydroxy‐4,4‐dimethoxy‐N‐phenylmethylpiperidine, is reported on for the preparation of 3‐oxygenated‐4‐substituted piperidines. Different synthetic approaches are described for the synthesis of cis and trans 3‐hydroxy‐ or 3‐methoxy‐1‐substituted‐4‐piperidinamines. The pharmacological properties of benzamides derived from these piperidinamines were evaluated. Several compounds showed a marked activity in tests indicative of potential gastrokinetic activity and were found to be free of dopamine (DA) antagonism. Compounds 31 (cisapride) and 35 were selected for further detailed pharmacological studies.