The present invention is related to an improved process for the preparation of amino-substituted 4,5,6,7-tetrahydrobenzothiazole compounds of formula I, such as the compound 2-amino-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-6-(n-propylamino)benzothiazole. The invention further relates to an improved synthesis of (R)-2-amino-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-6-(n-propylamino)benzothiazole. The invention also relates to the methods and intermediates associated with the synthetic process.