Optimization and development of novel green extraction methods applied to apprehended slimming agents containing mazindol

Abstract

Over the years, cases of obesity and overweight have grown to epidemic proportions enhancing the consumption of anorectic agents by therapeutic and illegal means. Their consumption is controlled worldwide and can be linked to various adverse effects. In cases of illicit distribution, samples have to be characterized highlighting the necessity to develop and optimize analytical methods to analyze these compounds. Recently, usage of green chemistry concepts gained critical importance as analytical protocols should target less amount of waste, low reagent quantity and should use of less toxic to non-toxic materials. Therefore, the aim of this study was to optimize the microwave-assisted extraction for mazindol evaluating the effects of power, time and solvent type in the extraction process by Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry. Optimization of the microwave assisted extraction showed a variation of results when changing solvents, with the maximum concentration extracted of mazindol reaching as much as 0.087 ± 0.002 mg. mL−1 when using ethanol, 0.078 ± 0.005 mg. mL−1 using acetonitrile and 0.062 ± 0.005 mg. mL−1 in methanol. Moreover, time had an important impact in the results as the extracted concentration increased along with analysis time. However, increasing power outputs the efficiency of the extraction decreased indicating a sample degradation with higher intensity of microwave irradiation. Therefore, a novel optimized protocol for the analysis of mazindol was developed obtained satisfactory results using a non-toxic solvent, adequate analysis time and mild extraction conditions.

Keywords

• Anorectic agents
• Green procedures
• Microwave-assisted extraction
• Optimization
• Forensic chemistry