The present invention relates to a 11.beta.-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 inhibitor comprising a compound represented by the formula (1): ##STR00001## wherein each symbol is as defined in the description,or a salt thereof, or a prodrug thereof. The 11.beta.-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 inhibitor of the present invention has a superior activity, and is useful as a pharmaceutical agent such as agents for the prophylaxis or treatment of diabetes, insulin resistance, obesity, abnormal lipid metabolism, hypertension and the like, and the like.