This invention relates to novel lactams having drug and bio-affecting properties, their pharmaceutical compositions and methods of use. These novel compounds inhibit the processing of amyloid precursor protein and, more specifically, inhibit the production of Aβ-peptide, thereby acting to prevent the formation of neurological deposits of amyloid protein. More particularly, the present invention relates to the treatment of neurological disorders related to β-amyloid production such as Alzheimer's disease and Down's Syndrome.