process for the production of d - homo - androstan 18 acids

摘要

The invention comprises compounds having the following formulae FORM:0984024/C2/1 wherein R is a hydrogen atom or an alkanoyl group having not more than 8 carbon atoms. These compounds are obtained by subjecting a 17-oxo compound having the formula FORM:0984024/C2/2 to a Grignard reaction to obtain the 17a -methyl - 17b - hydroxy compound which on dehydration yields the D 16-17-methyl compound. Dehydration may be effected with phosphorus oxychloride. Specification 873,019 also is referred to.