Harnessing new and stable green carbon nanoprobes enables a selective and reliable approach to fluorimetric analysis of favipiravir drug in human plasma

The health crisis induced by the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the quest for innovative antiviral drugs. One such advancement is the authorization of favipiravir (FAR) as an antiviral medication for COVID-19 management. As a result, it is essential to develop precise and cost-effective methodologies for quantifying FAR levels in plasma samples and tablets. In this research, we describe the creation of novel, thermostable (25–80 °C) and pH (3–11) stable amine-doped carbon dots (N@CQDs using green source) produced via a single-step synthesis approach for the assessment of FAR with high quantum yield 33.84% for reduction in the consumed organic solvents. Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have garnered significant attention in recent times due to their effectiveness as probes. Their affordability, environmentally friendly nature, and exceptional photocatalytic properties have positioned them as noteworthy substitutes for traditional luminescent methods such as fluorescent dyes and luminous derivatization. The addition of FAR significantly reduced the luminescence response of the synthesized green and stable carbon quantum dots at 515 nm. The linear graph for detection was quantified to be 5.0–200.0 ng mL⁻¹, with a lower limit of quantitation (LOQ) of 3.85 ng mL⁻¹. The method’s high sensitivity, thermostable, and selectivity make it suitable for use in clinical laboratories. Besides, the reusability and stability of the N@CQDs were conducted effectively for analysis of FAR.