Abstract

Use of ultraviolet detection to quantitate analytes is a basic concept of analytical chemistry. The basis of this application is well defined by Beer-Lambert’s law. To this end, the authors applied Beer-Lambert’s law as a simple and rapid tool to measure the accuracy of extemporaneously compounded pharmaceuticals. Using two commonly extemporaneously compounded formulations, the authors demonstrated the application of this tool. Advantages and limitations of the ultraviolet-visible technique are discussed. The authors speculate that more advanced spectral techniques for quality control will be adopted in the future. These techniques will be more accurate and will be associated with fewer limitations. However, costs associated with use will be greater.

Related Keywords

• ultraviolet light
• analyte quantitation
• analytical technique
• UV-Vis spectrophotometry
• UV spectrophotometer
• UV wavelength absorption
• UV absorbance
• Beer-Lambert's law
• compounding accuracy
• drug safety
• quality control
• active pharmaceutical ingredients
• API
• upper limit of absorbance
• lower limit of absorbance

Related Categories

• PEER-REVIEWED
• TECHNOLOGY
• QUALITY CONTROL
• UNITED STATES PHARMACOPEIA CONVENTIONS