Synthesis and biological activity of digitoxigenin aminoesters.

A series of 3 beta-esters of digitoxigenin (3 beta-hydroxy-14 beta-hydroxy-5 beta-card-20(22)-enolide) with alpha-aminoacids, were synthesized and tested for inotropic activity on the guinea-pig isolated heart and by slow infusion in the cat in comparison with digitoxigenin, Lanatoside C and Strophantin K. Esterification of the 3 beta-hydroxy group of digitoxigenin with various amino acids led to compounds still retaining inotropic activity with low in vivo potency and short duration of action. The compounds are inactive when administered orally.