Abstract: A reaction of a para-substituted aryl composition with cyclohexanone is facilitated by a metal hydride, such as NaH, KH, LiH, MgH2, CaH2, AlH3, and/or LiAlH4 to make first intermediates useful in producing a drug commonly known as Venlafaxine. Alternatively, lithium diisopropylamide (diisopropylamino lithium) may be used in place of the metal hydride. The first intermediates may be further reacted to form second intermediates in a reduction that is facilitated by Rainey nickel or a metal hydride. These reaction processes may each occur in an organic solvent, which delivers highly pure reaction products in high yield.