A new method of lactonization in the production of statins

摘要

The present invention relates to a processing method for preparing lovastatin and simvastatin which comprises the steps of (1) performing lactonization of mevinic acid and its homologous compounds in the presence of a mixed organic solvent without an acid catalyst through nitrogen sweep; and (2) making crystals. In the process of the present invention, lovastatin and simvastatin highly purified can be produced in a high yield and especially, heterodimers formed as a by-product can be reduced remarkably. Therefore, the processing method of the present invention can be convenient and economical.