Penem dithiocarbamates 10 were synthesized from the alcohol 6, in high
yields and favourable ratio between the penem and the undesired penam
isomers. In vitro antibacterial activity showed a dependence on polar
ity and steric hindrance of the side chain at C-2. Best results were o
btained with the piperazino derivatives 10 l-n, while catechol 10 p di
d not show the expected improvements in anti-pseudomonal activity.