(3,4-Dimethoxyphenyl)isopropyl ketone

1-(3,4-Dimethoxyphenyl)-2-methyl-1-propanone (Verapamil EP Impurity L) is a compound being considered as an inhibitor of melanogenesis. It may reduce growth or pigment production in melanocyte cells.

Preparation by acylation of veratrole,
with isobutyryl chloride in the presence of aluminium chloride (85%)
with isobutyric acid in the presence of PPA at 60° for 2.5 h
with isobutyric anhydride in acetonitrile in the presence of TiCl(OTf)3 /TfOH at r.t. for 12 h (89%).