2-Chloro-N,N-dimethylamino trimethinium chloride salt (CDT-chloride) is a key intermediate in the synthesis of Etoricoxib, a
selective COX-2 inhibitor developed by Merck & Co., Inc. The
formation of CDT-chloride from a mixture of chloroacetic acid
and POCl3 in DMF was monitored by in situ IR and in situ
NIR. The buildup of transient intermediates, starting material
disappearance, and product/byproduct formation were effectively followed during the course of the reaction using both
techniques. The observations confirmed the intermediacy of
both chloroacetyl chloride and a Vilsmeier type reagent as well
as document the evolution of carbon dioxide.