Bifemelane is a nootropic reported to have antianoxic, anti-ischemic and memory
enhancing activities. In man, bifemelane appears to increase cerebral blood flow, while in
rodents it reverses scopolamine-induced dementia. Bifemelane has an added adrenergic
component reportedly arising from norepinephrine uptake inhibition.
Mitsubishi; Eisai (Japan)
Bifemelane Hydrochloride, is an antidepressant MAO inhibitor. It has also been reported to protect neural tissues against ischemic damage and age-related neurodegeneration.
N-Methyl-4-[2-(phenylmethyl)phenoxy]-1-butanamine was prepared from 2-
(5-bromopentyloxy)diphenylmethane and of methylamine in ethanol is at
50°C in a sealed tube (heating for 3 hours). Ethanol and excess methylamine
are distilled in vacuo, 2 N NaOH aqueous solution is added, and the reaction
product is extracted with ether. Dry hydrogen chloride gas is passed into the
ether solution, and the precipitate collected by filtration. Recrystallization from
ethanol-ether gives N-methyl-4-[2-(phenylmethyl)phenoxy]-1-butanamine
hydrochloride, m.p. 87.5-89.5°C.
Antidepressant, Antiulcer, Nootropic
Moderately toxic by ingestion.
