| abstract |
Described is a process for preparing citalopram comprising converting a compound of formula (VIII) 1 - [(3-dimethylamino) prop-3-yl] -1- (4-fluorophenyl) -5-Z-1,3-dihydroisobenzofuran, wherein Z is halogen to a compound of formula (IV) 5-carboxy-1- (3- (N, N-dimethylamino) prop-1-yl) -1- (4-fluorophenyl) -1,3-dihydroisobenzofuran, followed by conversion of a compound of formula (IV) to citalopram. Also described is a process for preparing a compound of formula (IV) and a pharmaceutical composition comprising citalopram. |