Aim: Clinical monitoring of oxcarbazepine (OXC) and its metabolite licarbazepine (MHD) in biological matrix requires a sensitive and validated analytical method. The aim of this study is to develop and validate an optimized ultra performance liquid chromatography–MS/MS based bioanalytical method for the simultaneous estimation of OXC and its metabolite MHD in human plasma, using deuterated internal standard method. Materials & methods: A reverse phase ultra performance liquid chromatography analysis and mass spectrometric detection was performed using electrospray ionization in positive ion mode as interface, multiple reaction monitoring as mode of acquisition. Results & conclusion: The linearity range was 10–4011 ng/ml for OXC and 40–16061 ng/ml for MHD. The kinetic parameters were calculated and compared for bioequivalence. This method fulfilled the validation guidelines, could be employed for determining bioavailability and in new formulation development studies.

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Malnutrition remains a major global issue-affecting people of all ages. Iron deficiency is one of the existing malnutrition deficiencies limiting long-term human development. Food-based interventions play a vital role in the growth, development (physical and cognitive), and socioeconomic status of an individual. Several food-based approaches (viz., fortification and bio fortification of staple foods) have been employed for improving malnutrition in vulnerable populations. In underdeveloped countries, staple foods like rice, wheat, beans, and pearl millets etc. are being actively fortified and bio fortified to enhance the iron content intended to deliver the required nourishment with optimal consumption. However, translational iron levels from functional foods may not be proportional to iron absorbed into systems. Considering the effectiveness of bioavailability, additional emphasis is required in establishing the same for the functional foods which could serve as an effective alternative to existing methods in mitigating iron malnutrition. This review emphasizes the importance of iron, iron physio-pathological, and the current status of food strategies in dealing with iron malnutrition.