Analytical methods for meldonium determination in urine samples

Abstract

Here is reported a rapid analytical method for meldonium and other beta blockers (metoprolol, amlodipine, bisoprolol, nebivolol, betaxolol, and carvediol) in urine samples using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) for the detection of these forbidden compounds in athletes. A thin layer chromatography (TLC) plate coated with SiO₂ was employed. Simple analytical methods for screening meldonium and the aforementioned beta blockers in urine samples were developed using the TLC plates, FTIR spectroscopy with the aid of KBr pellet technique, and mass spectrometry. The surface hydroxyl groups were employed for the indirect detection of meldonium in the urine samples. The detection and quantification of meldonium were also confirmed by mass spectrometry by the use of both electron impact (EI) and electrospray (ESP) ionization systems.

Keywords:

• Beta-blockers
• electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
• Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy
• Meldonium
• urine sample

Acknowledgments

Thanks are due to Mrs. Sorina Ciupe for the collection of the FTIR spectra.

Disclosure statement

I. Bratu and C. Marutoiu have provided equal contributions to this paper.