| abstract |
Abstract of the Disclosure A process for the preparation of 3.beta.,7.beta.,15.alpha.-trihydroxy-5-androsten-17-one and the 3,15-dipivalate thereof comprises epimerizing 3.beta.,7.alpha.,15.alpha.-trihydroxy-5-androsten-17-one in the presence of a ketone with or without a solvent, with dilute mineral acid and sub-sequent treatment with an organic base, and optionally subsequently esterifying the 3.beta.- and 15.alpha.-positions of the resultant 3.beta.,7.beta.,15.alpha.-triol with a reactive derivative of pivalic acid. |