| abstract |
The present invention relates to a method for producing citalopram or any of its enantiomers or acid addition salts, comprising treating a compound of formula (IV) in which X is O or S; each of R — R is independently selected from hydrogen and C 1-6 alkyl or R and R together form a C 1-6 alkylene chain to form a spiro ring; R is selected from hydrogen and C 1-6 alkyl, R is selected from hydrogen, C 1-6 alkyl, a carboxy group or a precursor group, or R and R together form a C 1-6 alkylene chain to form a spiro ring; dehydrating agent; or alternatively, when X is S, thermal decomposition of the thiazoline ring or treatment in the presence of a free radical initiator to form citalopram. The invention also relates to intermediates used in a new method for producing citalopram. |