Improved Process for Azilsartan Medoxomil: A New Angiotensin Receptor Blocker

An improved process for the active pharmaceutical ingredient of a new angiotensin II AT(1) receptor antagonist, azilsartan medoxomil, has been developed. The results include reinvestigation of the described process as well as its novel modifications. This new process includes transformation of the CN group into amidoxime moiety by aqueous hydroxylamine, its cyclization into the corresponding oxadiazole by treatment with dialkyl carbonates, and the following hydrolysis of the ester and transformation into the medoxomil ester. Several thus far undocumented side products were identified, and some of them were synthesized and duly characterized as potential impurities. Formation and control of possible critical impurities are described.