Amidines as adrenergic neurone blocking agents

The Synthesis of N-Substituted Amidines of Potential Pharmacological Activity

A series of N-3-diethylaminopropyl benzamidines has been prepared. The method used was the well-known Pinner synthesis (Pinner, 1892) of the imido-ester hydrochloride and then further reaction with 3-diethylaminopropylamine monohydrochloride. The compounds were tested for histamine-like, antihistamine and adrenergic neurone blocking activity. Some nonspecific antihistamine activity was found; there was no other activity.

Treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis. II. Relation between steroid dose and steroid associated side effects

In a prospective study of 74 patients and a retrospective study of 35 patients with polymyalgia rheumatica/giant cell arteritis steroid related side effects occurred in at least one third of patients, and in two thirds if weight gain was included. Side effects were significantly related to an initial prednisolone dose of more than 30 mg and to the cumulative prednisolone dose. Patients taking a mean daily dose of 5 mg prednisolone or less were significantly less likely to develop side effects.