A solution of 400 mg (1.2 mmol) of 2-cyclopropyl-5-methoxy-1-(phenylmethyl)-1H-indole-3-acetamide and 2 mL of 1M BBr3/methylene chloride in 130 mL of methylene chloride was stirred for 1 hour with an ice-water bath and 3 hours at room temperature. The mixture was poured into water, 200 mL of ethyl acetate added, the organic layer separated, washed with brine and dried (Na2SO4). After concentrating at reduced pressure, the residue was crystallized from ethyl acetate to give 300 mg (79% yield) of 2-cyclopropyl-5-hydroxy-1-(phenylmethyl)-1H-indole-3-acetamide, mp, 174-175° C.
