First Generation Process for the Preparation of the DPP-IV Inhibitor Sitagliptin

A new synthesis of sitagliptin (MK-0431), a DPP-IV inhibitor and potential new treatment for type II diabetes, suitable for the preparation of multi-kilogram quantities is presented. The triazolopyrazine fragment of sitagliptin was prepared in 26% yield over four chemical steps using a synthetic strategy similar to the medicinal chemistry synthesis. Key process developments were made in the first step of this sequence, the addition of hydrazine to chloropyrazine, to ensure its safe operation on a large scale. The beta-amino acid fragment of sitagliptin was prepared by asymmetric reduction of the corresponding beta-ketoester followed by a two-step elaboration to an N-benzyloxy beta-lactam. Hydrolysis of the lactam followed by direct coupling to the triazolopiperazine afforded sitagliptin after cleavage of the N-benzyloxy group and salt formation. The overall yield was 52% over eight steps.