Method for the catalytic production of hydrocodone and hydromorphone

摘要

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)_nX_m]_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.