The invention relates to 5-HT.sub.4 receptor agonists and partial agonists. Novel thienopyridinone compounds and synthesis and uses thereof for treating diseases mediated directly or indirectly by 5-HT.sub.4 receptors, are disclosed. Such conditions include Alzheimer's disease, cognition disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, Parkinson's disease, nausea, emesis, vomiting, prokinesia, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and nonulcer dyspepsia. Methods of preparation and novel intermediates and pharmaceutical salts thereof are also included.