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 anti-secretory, antiulcer, and cytoprotective activities. Most of these compounds were superior to omeprazole in anti-secretory 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.