SPIRO-DERIVATIVES, PROCESS FOR THEIR PREPARATION AND MEDICINES CONTAINING THEM

The invention relates to new derivatives of spiro compounds represented by the general formula (I) (I) wherein R is a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, an alkyl group or an alkoxy group; R1 and R2 represent a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group or together form a nitrogen-containing heterocyclic ring; A is a>CH2 group or a>CO group; n is 4 or 5. These compounds can be prepared from beta -hydroxyacids by intramolecular rearrangement by the action of a strong acid, in order to form a gamma -spirolactone which is converted into an alpha -carboxy gamma -spirolactone to form the compounds of formula (I) using a Mannich reaction. As necessary, a reduction is then carried out. These compounds are useful medically, in particular, as an antidepressant, a stimulant, and a neuroleptic.