Synthesis and antiallergy activity of 4-(diarylhydroxymethyl)-1-[3-(aryloxy)propyl]piperidines and structurally related compounds.

A series of 4-(diarylhydroxymethyl)-1-[3-(aryloxy)propyl]piperidines was synthesized and evaluated for antiallergy activity. Several analogues had potent activity in the passive foot anaphylaxis (PFA) assay, an IgE-mediated model useful in the detection of compounds possessing antiallergic activity. In particular 1-[4-[3-[4-[bis(4-fluorophenyl)hydroxymethyl]-1-piperidinyl] propoxy]-3-methoxyphenyl]ethanone (1, AHR-5333) was more potent than oxatomide and terfenadine in this assay.