Evaluation of a New Tranquillizer—Benzquinamide (P2647) by a Sequential Method

Abstract

Benzquinamide (P2647 Pfizer) is a new benzoquinolizine derivative with the structural formula Animal studies have shown that it is a potent suppressor of conditioned avoidance behaviour, but it does not influence the release of central amines, has little sedative action and is free from serious toxic effect (personal communication, Pfizer Ltd.). An uncontrolled pilot study found it to be effective in relieving anxiety in neurotic patients (Smith, 1962). In the present trial the effect of benzquinamide (P2647) on anxiety symptoms is compared with a placebo and amylobarbitone in the same dosage using the method of sequential analysis.