Hydromorphone and hydrocodone compositions and methods for their synthesis

摘要

A method for the preparation of a ketone from a narcotic alkaloid having an allyl alcohol moiety is disclosed. The method includes mixing the narcotic alkaloid with an acid in the presence of a catalyst wherein the method is carried out in the substantial absence of hydrogen gas. The method is useful for preparing hydromorphone and hydrocodone compositions having novel impurity profiles. Compositions comprising hydromorphone and hydrocodone are also disclosed.