Development of the commercial process for Zoloft/sertraline
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Thermostabilization, Expression, Purification, and Crystallization of the Human Serotonin Transporter Bound to S-citalopram
Published on: November 27, 2016
1Global Research and Development, Chemical Research and Development, Pfizer, Inc., Groton, Connecticut 06340, USA. George_j_quallich@groton.pfizer.com
Abstract:
Sertraline represented Pfizer's first product with stereocenters not derived from natural sources, as was the case with azithromycin and beta-lactam products. Discovery chemists employed chromatography and classical resolution to secure the active agent's two stereocenters. Investigations to identify a commercial route comprised a number of synthetic approaches, including enantioselective ketone reduction, SN2 displacement of an activated alcohol to transfer chirality, and continuous chromatography. The challenges of adopting new technology in the pharmaceutical industry are discussed in the context of sertraline's development. The successful outcome employed continuous chromatography, and the potential for this technology to shift the development paradigm for any development candidate or commercial product is described.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Preclinical Development: Overview
Aryldiazonium Salts to Azo Dyes: Diazo Coupling
Production of Pharmaceuticals
Clinically Relevant Drug Product Specifications: Methods of Establishment
Clinical Trials: Overview
Ziegler–Natta Chain-Growth Polymerization: Overview

