Synthesis of 2-[[(4-Fluoroalkoxy-2-pyridyl)methyl]sulfinyl]-1H-benzimidazoles as Antiulcer Agents

Many 2-[[(4-fluoroalkoxy-2-pyridyl)methyl]sulfinyl]-1H-benzimidazoles were synthesized and tested for antisecretory, antiulcer, and cytoprotective activities. Most of these compounds were superior to omeprazole in antisecretory and antiulcer potencies, and especially in protecting the gastric mucosa from ethanol-induced damage. Among these compounds 2-[[[3-methyl-4-(2, 2, 2-trifluoroethoxy)-2-pyridyl]methyl]sulfinyl]-1H-benzimidazole, AG-1749 (lansoprazole) (6f), was selected for further development and clinical evaluation.