| abstract |
A process for the preparation of anastrozole is provided, the process comprising: n n(a) reacting 3,5-bis(1-cyano-1-methylethyl)benzyl halide with a 4-Z-1,2,4-triazole compound of the formula n nwherein Z is a protecting group to produce 2,2′-[5-(4-Z-1,2,4-triazolium-1-ylmethyl)-1,3-phenylene]di(2-methylpropionitrile) halide; and (b) deprotecting the 2,2′-[5-(4-Z-1,2,4-triazolium-1-ylmethyl)-1,3-phenylene]di(2-methylpropionitrile)halide to produce anastrozole. Also provided is anastrozole substantially free of its isomers. |