| abstract |
A process for the preparation of a 3-oxo-4-azasteroid, such as a compound of formula (I), from a corresponding 4- aza-androsten-3-one steroid alkene comprising the step of hydrogenating one or more double bonds in the presence of ammonium acetate, ammonium formate, ammonium propionate, or mixtures thereof and an appropriate catalyst. The catalyst may be selected from Pt2O, Pt/C, Pd/C, Pd(OH)2, and Ni catalysts. The process may also be carried out within the pressure range 103-3447 kPa, the temperature range 50-70°C and under hydrogen. |