Abstract: Present invention relates to an improved process for the preparation of Zopiclone and its enantiomerically enriched isomer (Eszopiclone). 6-(5-Chloropyridin-2-yl)-5-hydroxy-7-oxo-5,6-dihydropyrrolo[3,4-b]pyrazine is reacted with 1-chloro-carbonyl-4-methylpiperazine in the presence of alkali earth metal carbonates, hydroxides or oxides in a solvent medium to give Zopiclone. It is reacted with optically active acid in a mixture of water and water miscible organic solvent followed by work up to give Eszopiclone. The present invention also relates to process for the conversion of (R) or (S) Zopiclone to 6-(5-chloropyrid-2-yl)-5-hydroxy-7-oxo-5,6-dihydro-pyrrolo-[3,4-b]-pyrazine of the intermediate which can be converted to racemic Zopiclone.

Abstract: Present invention relates to an improved process for the preparation of Zopiclone and its enantiomerically enriched isomer (Eszopiclone). 6-(5-Chloropyridin-2-yl)-5-hydroxy-7-oxo-5,6-dihydropyrrolo[3,4-b]pyrazine is reacted with 1-chloro-carbonyl-4-methylpiperazine in the presence of alkali earth metal carbonates, hydroxides or oxides in a solvent medium to give Zopiclone. It is reacted with optically active acid in a mixture of water and water miscible organic solvent followed by work up to give Eszopiclone. The present invention also relates to process for the conversion of (R) or (S) Zopiclone to 6-(5-chloropyrid-2-yl)-5-hydroxy-7-oxo-5,6-dihydro-pyrrolo-[3,4-b]-pyrazine of the intermediate which can be converted to racemic Zopiclone.