The invention relates to novel N-acyl-2,3-benzodiazepine derivatives of the general formula (I), their stereoisomers and acid-addition salts, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and a process for their preparation. In the general formula (I), defined in this specification, a more complete description of the compounds may be found. The compounds of the general formula (I) possess valuable central nervous system effects, particularly muscle-relaxant, anticonvulsive and neuroprotective action. Thus, they may be useful for the treatment of various diseases of central nervous system origin.