USE OF HEMATOXYLIN IN THE SPECTROPHOTOMETRIC DETERMINATION OF ALKALOIDS IN PHARMACEUTICALS, GALENICALS AND POWDERED PLANTS

A simple and sensitive method for the determination of about fifteen a lkaloids is described. The procedure is based on the reaction of the a lkaloids with haematoxylin reagent in aqueous medium to give a red-vio let colour (lambda(max) = 555 nm). Several variables affecting the col our development were studied and optimized. The method was used to det ermine 2-40 mu g ml(-1) of the final measured alkaloidal base solution . There was a considerable increase in the absorptivity, which was dep endent on both the basicity (pK(a)) and molar concentration of the alk aloid present. The simplicity of the method permits rapid analysis, su itable for routine quality control. The interference of about 28 subst ances which are commonly prescribed with alkaloids was studied. No int erference due to additives commonly present in the pharmaceutical prep arations was observed, The method could be applied for the analysis of alkaloids in pure and pharmaceutical dosage forms, galenicals and pow dered plants.