| abstract |
Described are new steroid esters and amides of formula (I), wherein R1 is an α or β-positioned C¿1?-C3 alkyl group; Sk is -C C-(CH2)r-R?2¿, (E) or (Z) -CH=CH-(CH¿2)r-R?2, -(CH¿2?)2-(CH2)r-R?2¿, with R2 being an esterified or as amide derivatized hydroxy group, and St is one of the steroidal ABC ring systems of formula (A), (B) or (C) with R?6, R7 and R8¿ as indicated in the description. The derivatization is done inter alia with an amino acid or a peptide. The new compounds are distinguished over their basic hydroxy compounds ('parent compounds') by a substantially improved solubility and in some cases by an increased biological effect and selectivity. The new compounds are suitable for the manufacture of drugs. |