The present disclosure relates to an improved process for the preparation of isochroman structured alpha2A adrenoceptor agonist, namely 2-(5-methoxyisochroman-1-yl)-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazole of formula (I) and a pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, such as 2-(5-methoxyisochroman-1-yl)-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazole hydrogensulfate of formula (Ia), and to a novel intermediate compound used in the process, namely N-(2-aminoethyl)-5-methoxyisochroman-1-carboxamide monohydrate of formula (V). Alpha2A agonists are useful in the treatment of anxiety, and for use as a sedative or analgesic agent, and other diseases where alpha2A agonism is desired.