[Synthesis of prednicarbate, an non-halogenated topical anti-inflammatory derivative of prednisolone-17-ethylcarbonate esters].

The synthesis of prednisolone-17-ethylcarbonate-21-propionate (5) (prednicarbate, Hoe 777) passing the intermediate products prednisolone-17,12-diethylorthocarbonate (2) and prednisolone-17-ethylcarbonate (3) as well as some physicochemical properties and spectroscopic data of (5), especially the 1H-NMR- and MS-spectrum, are reported. Prednicarbate has an optimal split of topical/systemic antiinflammatory activity.