HIGH-PRESSURE LIQUID-CHROMATOGRAPHIC DETERMINATION OF THE STABILITY OF BENZOYL PEROXIDE IN PHARMACEUTICALS

The objective of this study was to assess the stability of three pharm aceutical formulations of benzoyl peroxide prepared in the laboratory. The authors selected three non-fatty bases : 1% Carbopol 940 gel alon g and in combination with 5% polymer Aquacoat, and an evanescent excip ient. High pressure liquid chromatography was used in the present stab ility study. We detected a degradation product in an aqueous solution (control) of benzoyl peroxide exposed to light at room temperature. Th e same product ws detected in the formulation prepared with evanescent excipient. No degradation product was observed in either of the other two preparations.