Benzazecinediones of the formula ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are independently hydrogen or chlorine, R.sup.3 is hydrogen, fluorine, chlorine, bromine or methoxy, R.sup.4 is hydrogen, chlorine or methoxy and R.sup.5 is hydrogen, acetyl, propionyl, benzoyl, chlorobenzoyl, methoxybenzoyl or phenylacetyl, with the proviso that 2 or 3 of the groups R.sup.1 to R.sup.4 are hydrogen, as well as many of the corresponding benzo[f]quinolines from which these benzazecinediones can be prepared by oxidation are suitable for the control or prevention of cerebral insufficiency or for the improvement of cognitive functions in mammals. They can be produced according to various processes and can be prepared into pharmaceutical compositions.