Abstract

A new selective reduction of N-substituted phthalimides to the corresponding hydroxyl lactams is described. This reduction performed smoothly under mild, concise and easily controllable condition in good yield (up to 97%). The generality of the reduction was also investigated and a wide range of substrates were suitable for this reaction.

Keywords: Phthalimide, hydroxyphalimidines, zinc, copper (I) bromide, reduction