| abstract |
This invention relates to a process for the preparation of berbane derivatives and pharmaceutical compositions containing them. The said derivatives have formula I <IMAGE> where R1 and R2 jointly form a dioxymethylene group and R3 represents an alkyl group with 1-6 carbon atoms. The said process is essentially characterized in that water is eliminated from optically active compounds of formula II <IMAGE> in which R1, R2 and R3 have the same meanings as above, by optionally resolving the compound of formula I so obtained, or by converting a compound of formula I to its salts, or by converting the salts to the free base. |