Process for preparation of roflumilast
The present invention provides novel processes for the preparation of N-substituted benzamides having the formula VIc: In some embodiments, the invention provides a process for preparation of roflumilast and other pharmaceutically active species. Novel compounds, including intermediates for the synthesis of roflumilast, are also provided.
1. A compound of formula Vc:
wherein
R l and R 2 are independently selected from the group consisting of H; C 1-6 alkyl; C 3-7 cycloalkyl; C 3-7 cycloalkylmethyl; and C 1-4 alkyl which is partially or completely substituted with fluorine.
2. The compound of claim 1 , wherein R 1 and R 2 are independently selected from the group consisting of C 3-7 cycloalkylmethyl and C 1-4 alkyl which is partially or completely substituted with fluorine.
3. A compound of claim 1 , wherein the compound of formula Vc has the formula: