Bisaryl ethers have been identified with excellent 5-HT2C affinity and selectivity over both 5- HT2A and 5-HT2B receptors. Compounds such as 11, 27 and 38 have potent oral activity in a centrally mediated pharmacodynamic model of 5-HT2C function and their potential as novel non-sedating anxiolytic and antidepressants is under investigation.