1-(alkoxy or aroxy)carbonyloxyalkyl esters of structural formula (I):
wherein:
R is (a) lower alkyl;
(b) lower cycloalkyl;
(c) unsubstituted or substituted aryl; or
(d) aralkyl;
R1 is (a) hydrogen;
(b) lower alkyl;
(c) lower cycloalkyl; or
(d) aryl;
R2 is (a) hydrogen;
(b) lower alkanoyl;
(c) lower alkoxycarbonyl;
R3 is (a) hydrogen; or
(b) lower alkyl; and
X is halo
are disclosed. Those compounds are stable in aqueous medium and non-irritant to mucous membranes of mouth, throat, and stomach. Accordingly, they are useful Prodrugs of the analgesic and anti-inflammatory drug diflunisal.