Synthesis and antimycotic properties of 1-(2-alkyl-2-phenylethyl)-1H-imidazoles

Abstract

The synthesis of 1-(2-alkyl-2-phenylethyl)-1H-imidazoles was accomplished starting from the corresponding phenylacetonitriles. Via alkylation, esterification and sodium borohydride reduction in the presence of lithium iodide, .beta.-phenylalcanols were obtained. Mesylation of these alcohols and refluxing with imidazole in dimethylformamide furnished title compounds, which were active in vitro against dermatophytes, yeasts, other fungi and gram-positive bacteria and in vivo, and in vitro against Candida albicans.