I want to synthesize an amide using tetrahydroisoquinoline and an unsaturated carboxylic acid which is light sensitive. I tried using DCC as a coupling agent and DCM as the solvent at room temperature, but it didn't work for me. The tetrahydroisoquinoline is in hydrochlorated form.
Do I have to do acid extraction prior to synthesis, or I can use the hydrochlorated form itself? Please suggest a good method along with the conditions for the reaction to be carried out.