Asymmetric synthesis of phenylisopropylamines

The synthesis of enantiomers of a series of methoxy- and alkyl- substituted phenylisopropylamines is described. The synthesis comprises reducing the imines, formed by the reaction of appropriate phenylacetones with either (+)- or (-)-α-methylbenzylamine, by low-pressure reduction techniques, and subsequently subjecting the optically active N-(α-phenethyl)phenylisopropylamine derivative to hydrogenolysis. The hydrogenolysis products are characterized by enantiomeric purities in the range of 96 - 99%. Yields of products are approximately 60%.