| abstract |
A method for the preparation of 5-cyanophthalide in which 5-carboxyphthalide is converted to the corresponding amide of Formula (IV) in which R is hydrogen or C1-6 alkyl, which is then reacted with a dehydrating agent thereby obtaining 5-cyanophthalide. The conversion of 5-carboxyphthalide to the corresponding amide of Formula (IV) may be carried out via the corresponding C1-6 alkyl or phenyl ester or the acid chloride, which is converted to the amide of Formula (IV) by amidation with ammonia or a C1-6 alkylamine. By the process 5-Cyanophtalide, an important intermediate used in the preparation of the antidepressant drug citalopram, is prepared in high yields by a convenient, cost effective procedure. |