The object of the invention is the use as a drug of a compound fitting formula I ##STR00001## wherein X represents an oxygen atom or a .dbd.N--OH groupand R represents a group selected from ##STR00002## or one of its esters and/or of its addition salts with pharmaceutically acceptable acids, particularly as a cytoprotective drug, preferentially a cardioprotective and/or neuroprotective drug, the compounds of formula I wherein R is R2, R3, R4, R5 or R6 as novel compounds as well as their preparation method and use.