Patent ID: 6806376
Filing Date: 2004-10-19
Classification: A61P,C07D

Abstract:
A method for the preparation of citalopram comprising subjecting, in either order, a compound of formula wherein Y is a cyano group or a group which may be converted to a cyano group, R is hydrogen, â€”Oâ€”R1, NH2, NHCH3 or â€”N(CH3)2 wherein R1 is selected from hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl and optionally alkyl substituted aryl or aralkyl; to i) reduction of the double bond in the side chain of formula â€”CH&boxH;CHâ€”COR; ii) conversion of the group â€”COR or a reduced form thereof to a dimethylaminomethyl group; and iii) if Y is not cyano, conversion of the group Y to a cyano group; â€ƒfollowed by isolating citalopram base or a pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salt thereof.