cis-Isocytoxazone 2a and trans-isocytoxazone 2h, structural isomers of the antiasthmatic agent cytoxazone (-)-1, and their 5-substituted congeners 23-28 have been prepared. Aldol reaction of para-substituted benzaldehydeswith 7-chloro-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, followed by separation of diastereomeric racemates afforded 3-10. Acid-catalyzed 1,4-benzodiazepine ring opening, and transformation