Synthesis and antianxiety activity of (omega-piperazinylalkoxy)indan derivatives.

A series of (omega-piperazinylalkoxy)indan derivatives has been synthesized and screened for potential antianxiety activities. The effect of structural modification of these molecules on activities has been systemically examined. Antianxiety activity was displayed by 5-[3-(4-phenyl-1-piperazinyl)propoxy]indan (2), 5-[3-[4-(4-fluorophenyl)-1-piperazinyl]-propoxy]indan (8), 6-fluoro-5-[3-(4-phenyl-1-piperazinyl)propoxy]indan (33), and 6-methyl-5-[3-(4-phenyl-1-piperazinyl)propoxy]indan (42), as determined in antifighting and anti-morphine tests. These derivatives in antianxiety tests were equipotent or more potent than chlordiazepoxide with less muscle-relaxant effect. They also showed weak neuroleptic-like action.