A captive solvent method for rapid N-[11C]methylation of secondary amides: application to the benzodiazepine, 4'-chlorodiazepam (RO5-4864).

[11C]4'-Chlorodiazepam (RO5-4864), for PET studies of peripheral benzodiazepine receptors, was synthesized by alkylation of 1-desmethyl-4'-chlorodiazepam, in a small volume of acetone adsorbed on acrylic yarn, with [11C]methyl iodide in the injection loop of a liquid chromatograph. The reaction mixture was introduced directly onto a small, disposable alumina chromatographic column. Elution with pentane:ethanol gave a product of high chemical and radiochemical purity. A simple heating and cooling device for the injection loop is described.