Described herein are processes for the preparation of nepafenac and related intermediates, particularly wherein 2-aminobenzophenone is treated with a 2-(alkylthio)acetamide in the presence of sulfuryl chloride to afford a 2-(2-amino-3-benzoylphenyl)-2-(alkylthio)acetamide, which upon reduction affords nepafenac. Described herein are also processes for the purification of nepafenac, particularly for the removal of structurally similar impurities.
