Synthesis of 2- and 4-hydroxymethyl Loratadine, usual impurities in Loratadine syrup formulations

The synthesis of two contaminants of Loratadine, generated when the product is formulated as a syrup, is described. The products, identified as 2and 4-hydroxymethyl derivatives of the starting compounds, are obtained by the corresponding substitution of the pyridine moiety of Loratadine.