New synthesis of oxcarbazepine via remote metalation of protected N-o-tolyl-anthranilamide derivatives

Benzyl and allyl protected N-o-tolyl-anthranilamides were efficiently prepared by Buchwald–Hartwig C–N cross coupling reactions, followed by protection of the amino group. Under directed remote metalation conditions, protected dibenzoazepinones were obtained in good yields. Deprotection of the amine and conversion to an urea furnished a new and efficient synthesis of the antiepileptic drug Trileptal®.