title: Modified synthesis of erlotinib hydrochloride.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  An improved and economical method has been described for the synthesis of erlotinib hydrochloride, as a useful drug in treatment of non-small-cell lung cancer.
  
  
  METHODS
  Erlotinib hydrochloride was synthesized in seven steps starting from 3, 4-dihydroxy benzoic acid. In this study, we were able to modify one of the key steps which involved the reduction of the 6-nitrobenzoic acid derivative to 6-aminobenzoic acid derivative. An inexpensive reagent such as ammonium formate was used as an in situ hydrogen donor in the presence of palladium/charcoal (Pd/C) instead of hydrogen gas at high pressure.
  
  
  RESULTS
  This proposed method proceeded with 92% yield at room temperature. Synthesis of erlotinib was completed in 7 steps with overall yield of 44%.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  From the results obtained it can be concluded that the modified method eliminated the potential danger associated with the use of hydrogen gas in the presence of flammable catalysts. It should be mentioned that the catalyst was recovered after the reaction and could be used again.
authors: Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. ; Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
authors: Leila
authors: L
authors: Barghi
authors: Ayuob
authors: A
authors: Aghanejad
authors: Hadi
authors: H
authors: Valizadeh
authors: Jaleh
authors: J
authors: Barar
authors: Davoud
authors: D
authors: Asgari
keywords: Erlotinib; Palladium/Charcoal (Pd/C); Tyrosine kinase