UHPLC analysis of trazodone in biological fluids

Abstract

A simple and fast, yet effective and precise UHPLC method for qualitative determination of an antidepressant medication trazodone in biological samples has been developed. Both UV (DAD, 254 nm) and fluorescence (Ex. 320, Em. 440 nm) detection modes are determined applicable. Excellent linearity (r > 0.9999) over sufficiently wide concentration range (from 0.15 up to 15 µg mL–1) covering therapeutic, toxic, and comatose blood levels has been demonstrated. High precision (RSD < 1.6%), good recovery (85%) and low detection limits (LOQ 150 ng mL–1) make this relatively rapid method (ca. 30 min for a single run) a suitable asset in identification of acute intoxications, diagnosis refinement and treatment monitoring. The applicability and importance of newly developed method are demonstrated by a clinical case of Trittico self-poisoning and a corresponding treatment course.