Conversion of Amides into Amines with LiAlH4

Amides can be converted to 1°, 2° or 3° amines using LiAlH₄.

Example 1: Amide Reductions
Alkyl groups attached to the nitrogen do not affect the reaction.

Example 1: Amide Reductions

Alkyl groups attached to the nitrogen do not affect the reaction.

Mechanism

1) Nucleophilic attach by the hydride

2) Leaving group removal

3) Nucleophilic attach by the hydride