title: An improved method for O-demethylation of codeine.
abstract: The O-demethylation of codeine was effected by sodium propylmercaptide in dimethylformamide at 125 degrees C to afford morphine in 80% yield. Similar treatment of thebaine was unrewarding.
mesh_terms: D003061:Codeine; D008745:Methylation; D009020:Morphine / Q000138:chemical synthesis; D013438:Sulfhydryl Compounds; D013696:Temperature; D013797:Thebaine
chemical_list: D013438:Sulfhydryl Compounds; D013797:Thebaine; D009020:Morphine; D003061:Codeine