Progress in the applied research of microwave-assisted drug synthesis

Microwave technology is a green synthesis method that uses microwave energy to efficiently and selectively heat reaction systems, thereby significantly accelerating chemical reactions and enhancing product selectivity. Compared with conventional conductive heating, microwave-assisted synthesis enables rapid and uniform heating of the reaction system via its distinct mechanisms of volumetric heating and selective molecular excitation. This approach can markedly shorten reaction times, increase target product yields and selectivity, lower energy consumption, and reduce by-product formation, making it a valuable tool for advancing green and efficient synthetic technologies. Consequently, its application has expanded rapidly in the field of pharmaceutical synthesis in recent years. This article summarizes recent research progress in the use of microwave technology for various aspects of drug synthesis.