2-Pyrazinecarbonitrile, 2-acetylpyrazine, 5-alkyl-2-pyrazinecarboxamides, 5-alkyl-2-pyrazinecarbonitriles and 5-alkyl-2-acetylpyrazines were prepared as intermediates for use in synthesis of potential antiinflammatory agents. The results of the homolytic alkylation of pyrazinecarboxamide were compared with published data. 2-Acetylpyrazine and its 5-(1,1-dimethylethyl) derivative were screened for biological activity, but no interesting effect was found.