Abstract: The present invention is directed to processes for the synthesis of morphinans. In particular, a process for cyclizing a ?,?-bicyclic ketone compound to form a nordihydrothebainone product using the Grewe cyclization reaction is improved by forming a reaction mixture comprising a ?,?-bicyclic ketone compound, a cyclizing acid and a water scavenging cyclization additive. In one embodiment, the Grewe transformation occurs in the presence of an acid anhydride as the cyclization additive. Further, the present invention is directed to processes for converting ?,?-bicyclic ketone compounds (e.g., by-products of the Grewe cyclization reaction) to ?,?-bicyclic ketone compounds, wherein the ?,?-bicyclic ketone compounds may be recovered to further undergo Grewe cyclization and form the nordihydrothebainone product.

Abstract: Novel opiate intermediate compositions and methods of synthesis that include changing the substitution pattern on the aromatic ring of the pre-Grewe intermediate are provided. The intermediates are morphinane derivatives of formula (10), wherein X is a F or Cl and R is selected from the group consisting of an H, alkyl, aryl, acyl, formyl, COR?, CONHR?, COOR, Bn(benzyl), alkyl(methyl), and sulfonamide SO2CH2COPh.

Abstract: Novel opiate intermediate compositions and methods of synthesis that include changing the substitution pattern on the aromatic ring of the pre-Grewe intermediate are provided.

Abstract: Novel opiate intermediate compositions and methods of synthesis that include changing the substitution pattern on the aromatic ring of the pre-Grewe intermediate are provided.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to processes for the synthesis of morphinans. In particular, a process for cyclizing a ?,?-bicyclic ketone compound to form a nordihydrothebainone product using the Grewe cyclization reaction is improved by forming a reaction mixture comprising a ?,?-bicyclic ketone compound, a cyclizing acid and a water scavenging cyclization additive. In one embodiment, the Grewe transformation occurs in the presence of an acid anhydride as the cyclization additive. Further, the present invention is directed to processes for converting ?,?-bicyclic ketone compounds (e.g., by-products of the Grewe cyclization reaction) to ?,?-bicyclic ketone compounds, wherein the ?,?-bicyclic ketone compounds may be recovered to further undergo Grewe cyclization and form the nordihydrothebainone product.

Abstract: A method for the catalytic conversion of codeine, morphine or analogs thereof into hydrocodone, hydromorphone or analogs thereof utilizing a transition metal complex of a tertiary phosphine halide as catalyst.

Abstract: A method for the catalytic conversion of codeine, morphine or analogs thereof into hydrocodone, hydromorphone or analogs thereof utilizing a transition metal catalyst of the formula [M(PR3R4R5)nXm]p; wherein R1 is H, alkyl, aryl or acyl; M is a Group VIII transition metal; R3, R4 and R5 are selected from the group consisting of alkyl, aryl, alkoxyl, phenoxyl and combinations thereof; X is a halide or an anion; n is 1, 2, 3 or 4; m is 1 or 2; and p is at least 1.

Abstract: A method for the selective reduction of an aromatic compound. The present invention provides a method for pre-venting the reduction of at least one halogen substituted aromatic ring of an aromatic compound, while allowing the reduction of at least one functional group on the aromatic compound. In the present invention at least one hydroxyl group is placed on the at least one halogen substituted aromatic ring to be protected from reduction. The aromatic compound is then reacted with at least one alkali metal in at least one nitrogen containing base and at least one alcohol at a ratio of the alcohol to the nitrogen containing base at which the aromatic ring with the hydroxyl group is protected from reduction, while the desired functional group is reduced.