Brock University

Hannes Leisch

Tomas Hudlicky

Robert James Carroll

Lukas Werner

Ales Machara

Mary Ann Endoma-Arias

D Phillip Cox

Robert Carroll

David R Adams

The present invention provides a method for the N-demethylation and N-functionalization of an N-methylated heterocycle such as a morphine alkaloid or tropane alkaloid. The method comprises reacting the heterocycle with an functionalization agent in the presence of a transition metal catalyst in air or in the presence of an oxidant.

Methods for one-pot N-demethylation/N-functionalization of morphine and tropane alkaloids

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The present application describes processes for the synthesis of morphinane and morphinone compounds, useful as pharmaceutical agents. Also included are novel intermediates useful in the preparation of these compounds. The process comprises quaternization of oripavine to provide a mixture of the R- and S-isomeric (at the nitrogen) quaternary salts. The R-isomer is readily isolated and converted to various N-(R)-morphinane and N-(S)-morphinone compounds. The R-isomer, S-isomer or a mixture of R- and S-isomers may be demethylated and converted to various morphinane and morphinone compounds.

Processes for the preparation of morphinane and morphinone compounds

The present invention provides a method for the N-demethylation and/or N-acylation of an N-methylated heterocycle such as morphine alkaloids or tropane alkaloids. The method comprises reacting the heterocycle with an acylating agent in the presence of a metal catalyst.

The present invention provides a method for the N-demethylation of an N-methylated heterocycle, particularly a morphine or tropane alkaloid or derivative thereof. The method comprises reacting the heterocycle with a metal catalyst and a solvent in the presence of an oxidizing agent.

The present invention provides methods for the conversion of thebaine to a morphine derivative, such as hydrocodone. Novel ketal intermediates of the conversion are provided. A one-pot procedure for the conversion comprises treating thebaine with an acid in the presence of a metal catalyst.

Growing community of inventors

St. Catharines, Canada

Hannes Leisch