Detection and Quantitation of Trace Phenolphthalein (in Pharmaceutical Preparations and in Forensic Exhibits) by Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry, a Sensitive and Accurate Method

Abstract

Phenolphthalein, an acid-base indicator and laxative, is important as a constituent of widely used weight-reducing multicomponent food formulations. Phenolphthalein is an useful reagent in forensic science for the identification of blood stains of suspected victims and for apprehending erring officials accepting bribes in graft or trap cases. The pink-colored alkaline hand washes originating from the phenolphthalein-smeared notes can easily be determined spectrophotometrically. But in many cases, colored solution turns colorless with time, which renders the genuineness of bribe cases doubtful to the judiciary. No method is known till now for the detection and identification of phenolphthalein in colorless forensic exhibits with positive proof. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry had been found to be most sensitive, accurate method capable of detection and quantitation of trace phenolphthalein in commercial formulations and colorless forensic exhibits with positive proof. The detection limit of phenolphthalein was found to be 1.66 pg/L or ng/mL, and the calibration curve shows good linearity (r(2) = 0.9974).

Developments in the chemistry and applications of phthalein dyes. Part 2: biological applications

“…No method was available until recently for detecting and identifying phenolphthalein in colourless forensic exhibits in order to provide proof of identity. Liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) is the most sensitive and accurate method for detecting and accurately quantitating traces of phenolphthalein in commercial formulations and colourless (originally coloured) forensic exhibits as evidence before a jury . Furthermore, fires have been used by perpetrators to cover up homicides and other violent crimes.…”

Validation of the method for determination of Phenolphthalein and Sibutramine in weight‐loss functional foods from Viet Nam by UPLC‐MS/MS

“…[9] The content of PP in pharmaceutical samples was determined by the UV-Vis method with 3-methyl benzothiazolinone-2-hydrazone reagent. [18] PP has also been determined by the LC-MS method in pharmaceutical preparations and forensic exhibits, [19] or by HPLC-PDA, [20] or by UHPLC-MS/MS. [21] Recently, the weight-loss functional food market has been active in Vietnam.…”

Rapid discrimination of slimming capsules based on illegal additives by electronic nose and flash gas chromatography

“…Phenolphthalein is an acid–base indicator and laxative, which is prescribed for short‐term treatment of constipation in humans, implying its possible weight‐reducing effect. However, it can cause more severe constipation, electrolyte imbalance, cancer, cardiac arrhythmia, and even death . Sibutramine is a serotonin noradrenalin reuptake inhibitor, which promotes and maintains weight loss in obese people.…”