title: Rapid and sensitive detection of benzodiazepines and zopiclone in serum using high-performance thin-layer chromatography.
abstract: We developed a rapid and sensitive method of identifying benzodiazepines and zopiclone in human serum using high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC). These drugs were developed and separated on plates within 8-11 min and detected by means of UV radiation and colour. Each drug was accurately identified by means of the values of RF x 100 and the spot colour in three systems. The detection limit of the benzodiazepines in serum was 0.1-0.4 micrograms/ml, except for cloxazolam and haloxazolam. The sensitivity was increased about ten-fold over the conventional method. These results suggested that the HPTLC system is useful for the initial detection and identification of these drugs in emergencies.
authors.affiliation: Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Otsubo
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Seto
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Futagami
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Oishi
mesh_terms: D053961:Azabicyclo Compounds; D001569:Benzodiazepines / Q000097:blood*; D002855:Chromatography, Thin Layer / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives / Q000097:blood*; D010879:Piperazines / Q000097:blood*; D013056:Spectrophotometry, Ultraviolet
chemical_list: D053961:Azabicyclo Compounds; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives; D010879:Piperazines; C515050:zopiclone; D001569:Benzodiazepines