LC-MS analysis of basic pharmaceuticals (beta-blockers and anti-ulcer agents) in wastewater and surface water

Given the concern for assessing environmental exposure due to the presence of pharmaceuticals and their potential impact, most studies carried out in this field have been on the development of analytical methods. Beta-blockers and anti-ulcer agents are pharmaceuticals with amine functionalities and basic sites in the molecules that can cause difficulties in their analysis. This review compiles the advances presented in the current literature as approaches to solving the difficulties in the analysis of basic pharmaceuticals by using liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry systems and sample treatment for complex matrices. We also compile environmental findings for beta-blockers and anti-ulcer agents in this review. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.