A new synthetic method of ciprofloxacin is started with 2,4-dichloro-5-fluo
roacetophenone, via oxalylation, ethoxymethylenation, amination, cyclizatio
n, hydrolysis, decarbonylation and piperazination. The reaction temperature
is moderate and the operation is easily controlled. Additional four new co
mpounds are prepared by the method.