Chemical Evaluation of Drugs

Definition of Chemical Evaluation of Drugs

• Qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses to identify and measure active constituents or marker compounds.

Approaches

Simple Chemical Tests

• Color reactions (e.g., Mayer’s reagent for alkaloids, Ferric chloride test for phenolics).

Chromatographic Techniques

• TLC / HPTLC: Quick, cost-effective separation and identification.

• HPLC / GC: More precise, can quantify individual components.

Spectral Methods

• UV-Vis, IR, NMR, Mass Spectrometry for structural and purity analysis.

Assay Methods

• Determining percentage of main active constituent (e.g., total alkaloids in belladonna, curcuminoids in turmeric).

Significance

• High specificity; can detect small amounts of adulterants.

• Essential for standardization and ensuring consistent therapeutic potency.

Limitations

• Requires laboratory equipment and technical expertise.

• More time-intensive and costly than preliminary methods.