| abstract |
Disclosed is a method for the preparation of citalopram comprising conversion of a compound of Formula VIII 1-[(3-dimethylamino)prop-3-yl]-1-(4-fluorophenyl)-5-Z-1,3-dihydroisobenzofuranwherein Z is halogen, to a compound of Formula IV 5-carboxy-1-(3-(N,N-dimethylamino)prop-1-yl)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)-1,3-dihydroisobenzofuranfollowed by conversion of the compound of Formula IV into citalopram. Methods for the preparation of the compound of Formula IV are also disclosed. |