Synthesis of cyclopentyl 2-thienyl ketone tiletamine and tiletamine acid addition salts such as tiletamine hydrochloride

Abstract

Solid, non-tin-containing catalysts can be used for the synthesis of cyclopentyl 2-thienyl ketone by the reaction of cyclopentanecarboxylic acid chloride and thiophene, while achieving new and unexpected yields. Aluminum trichloride is both cheaper than stannic chloride and it is easier to deal with as a waste stream. The successful use of graphite as a catalyst for the reaction of cyclopentanecarboxylic acid chloride and thiophene provides a mild and ecologically friendly method for carrying out the Friedel-Crafts reaction. A tiletamine-free base can be made from the cyclopentyl 2-thienyl ketone with a halide in the presence of a solvent for the cyclopentyl 2-thienyl ketone to form a halogenated cyclopentane 2-thienyl ketone; aminating the halogenated cyclopentane 2-thienyl ketone by reaction with an amine; and subjecting the reaction product to thermal rearrangement, in a suitable solvent, and at a sufficient temperature to form tiletamine free base. Each step for the formation of tiletamine free base can be accomplished using the same solvent, e.g., dichlorobenzene so that intermediates need not be isolated between reactions.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.