摘要 |
Compounds of formula <IMAGE> (I) wherein: R1 is a C1-8 alkyl group or a C3-7 cycloalkyl group; R2 is a hydrogen atom, a C1-6 alkoxy group or a C2-5 alkanoyloxy group; and R is a C1-8 alkyl group or a C3-7 cycloalkyl group; provided that when the compounds contain a 5 beta -hydrogen atom, R2 is a hydrogen atom, and the D-homo analogues thereof having the group -CO2R3 (wherein R3 is as defined above) at the 17a beta -position, and salts thereof have activity as antidysrhythmic agents and may be applicable for treatment of ventricular dysrhythmias in humans or animals. The compounds may be provided in the form of compositions in admixture with pharmaceutical carriers and excipients and may be prepared by a variety of processes known for producing steroids of this type. The invention also provides intermediates for the preparation of the compounds of formula (I), wherein R3 and/or R1 are replaced with hydrogen atoms, and processes for the preparation of such intermediates. |