Synthesis of (±)‐Pregabalin by Utilizing a Three‐Step Sequential‐Flow System with Heterogeneous Catalysts

(±)-Pregabalin has been synthesized by utilizing flow methods. Three-step sequential-flow reactions starting from commercial isovaleraldehyde and methyl malonate proceeded smoothly with heterogeneous catalysts to afford the desired compound. The total yield was 75%-quant, and a space-time yield (STY) of 52.2 g/L·d was reached. In addition, a heterogeneous catalyst for the Knoevenagel reaction of aldehydes with malonates, which is the first step of the synthesis, has been developed.