Synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of N-acyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline derivatives as novel specific bradycardic agents.

A series of N-acyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their bradycardic activities in isolated guinea pig right atria and in urethane-anesthetized rats. These efforts resulted in identification of the compound 8a, which exhibits potent bradycardic activity with minimal influence on mean blood pressure in urethane-anesthetized rats. Oral administration of compound 8a to conscious rats revealed increased potency and prolonged duration of action when compared to Zatebradine.