A rapid and efficient synthesis of 5-methoxypsoralen, furocoumarin commonly used
in dermatology for the treatment by PUVA therapy of skin diseases, is described using
cheap and easily available starting materials. An alternative method to synthesize
7-(2-oxoethoxy)coumarin, the key step to generate the furan ring, is suggested.
furocoumarin - psoralen - medicinal chemistry - total synthesis - furan ring