PROCESS FOR PREPARING IBUPROFEN AND ITS ALKYL ESTERS

摘要

PROCESS FOR PREPARING IBUPROFEN AND ITS ALKYL ESTERS A new process for preparing ibuprofen or its alkyl esters is provided. A 1-halo-1-(4-isobutylphenyl)ethane is reacted with carbon monoxide in the presence of water or an alcohol at a temperature between 10.degree.C and 200.degree.C. An excess of several moles of water or alcohol is preferred. An acid such as hydrochloric acid may also be added. As catalyst, a palladium compound and at least one acid-stable ligand are present; and an excess of ligand over palladium is advantageous.