Preparation of amides of retinoic acid via mixed anhydride and mixed carbonate intermediates

Processes for preparing amides of retinoic acid are disclosed. Intermediates useful in the preparation of amides of retinoic acid are also disclosed. In one version of the invention, fenretinide is produced via activation of retinoic acid (tretinoin) via its corresponding mixed anhydride or mixed carbonate followed by reaction of the activated intermediate with 4-aminophenol. Other amides of retinoic acid and isomers of retinoic acid, such as the 9-cis-form or 13-cis-form can also be made by this invention.