Abstract: The present invention provides 1,2-diphenylethane derivatives of the general formula: ##STR1## wherein X is a hydrogen or halogen atom, R and R', which may be the same or different, are alkyl radicals optionally substituted by halogen atoms, R.sub.1 and R.sub.2, which may be the same or different, are acyl radicals, hydroxyl groups or acylated hydroxyl groups and R.sub.3 and R.sub.4, which may be the same or different, are hydroxyl groups or acylated or alkylated hydroxyl groups.The present invention also provides processes for the preparation of these compounds and pharmaceutical compositions containing them.

Abstract: The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition for treating ulcerative colitis containing at least one compound of the general formula: ##STR1## wherein X is an --SO.sub.2 -- or --CO-- group and R is either an unsubstituted or substituted non-heterocyclic aromatic ring system or is a radical of the general formula --(CH.sub.2).sub.n --Y, in which Y is a hydroxyl group, an unsubstituted or substituted amino group or a carboxylic or sulphonic acid group and n is a whole number of from 1 to 6 and in which one or more hydrogen atoms in the alkylene radical can be replaced by unsubstituted or substituted amino groups or alkyl radicals and in which the --(CH.sub.2).sub.n --Y radical is either attached directly to the nitrogen atom or via a benzene ring; and/or containing at least one ester thereof and/or at least one non-toxic, pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, in admixture with a solid or liquid pharmaceutical diluent or carrier.