Application of fast LC to pharmaceutical analysis: dopamine.HCl

A reversed-phase HPLC method for the determination of the dopamine hydrochloride content of pharmaceutical intravenous solutions is developed using short (3-cm) columns packed with 3-micron particles. Total analysis time for the stability indicating assay, which is capable of separating the analyte from all its common degradates and formulation matrix components, is 2 min. The assay is equivalent in performance (accuracy, precision, separation behavior, ruggedness) to a standard method recommended by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP). Common components of conventional HPLC systems are evaluated with respect to their utility for this application of fast LC.