PRODUCTION OF IMIDAZOLES

摘要

A new process is described for the production of 4-methyl-5-substituted- alkylthiomethyl-imidazoles, particularly Cimetidine of the formula by the following series of reactions wherein Alk<1> is alkylene preferably -CH2-CH2- and Alk<2> is C1-4 alkyl preferably CH3. The reactions for the selective reduction of Y and the deoxygenation may be effected in reverse order. The starting compound may have a second oxime group replacing the keto group or the oxime and keto groups shown may be transposed. The thioether cyanoguandines produced in the first reaction step are claimed as new compounds.