Quantitative analysis of plasma nicotine using selected ion monitoring at high resolution

A highly sensitive and specific method for the quantitative determination of nicotine in plasma is described. Using simple one-step work-up technique and (5',5'-2H2) nicotine as internal standard, the analytical procedure is based on combined capillary column gas chromatography and high resolution selected ion monitoring. Incorporation of a specially designed gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer interface allowing introduction of the eluent by a fused silica capillary via the direct inlet port into the ion source brings the detection level for nicotine in an alcoholic solution down to below 100 fg. The discriminatory nature of the method also makes it well suited for studying ambiguities of instrumental nicotine assay and some of these are discussed.