Novel tricyclic benzazepine derivatives were synthesized as arginine vasopressin (AVP) antagonists. Several tricyclic compounds showed potent antagonistic activity in rat AVP receptors V1a and V2. Derivatives containing pyrrolo-tricyclic amines, 13i–k, 30, and 31 also showed selectivity for the V2 receptor.

A method for the preparation of steroid triethylammonium sulfates is outlined which involves the fusion of triethylamine-sulfur trioxide and steroids. Experimental details are presented which define the process as a thermal equilibrium resulting in the preferential sulfation of aliphatic hydroxyl groups. Sulfation of an aromatic hydroxyl group can be achieved in the absence of an aliphatic hydroxyl group. With excess reagent both types of hydroxyl groups in the same molecule can be sulfated.