Comprehensive evaluation of analytical methods for determination of phenylephrine across diverse matrices
摘要
Phenylephrine (PH) is a selective α₁-adrenergic agonist widely employed as a nasal decongestant, vasopressor, and ophthalmic mydriatic. This review critically evaluates current analytical methodologies for quantifying PH in pharmaceutical formulations and biological matrices, with an emphasis on selectivity, sensitivity, robustness, and practical applicability. A systematic literature search was conducted using Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, limited to peer-reviewed English-language publications. Chromatographic approaches—particularly reversed-phase HPLC employing acidic mobile phases, ion-pairing reagents, hydrophilic interaction chromatography, or tandem mass spectrometry emerge as the most reliable solutions to address weak retention and co-elution challenges, with LC–MS/MS being essential for trace-level plasma analysis. Electrochemical techniques exploit the electroactive phenolic moiety of PH, enabling rapid, cost-effective determination with minimal sample preparation, whereas spectroscopic methods remain suitable for routine or green analytical applications but are more susceptible to matrix effects without chemometric support. Overall, analytical performance is strongly influenced by optimized ionization control, matrix-specific extraction strategies, and stability-indicating validation. Future developments are expected to focus on greener solvents, miniaturized and microextraction-based workflows, and data-driven optimization, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, to enhance analytical efficiency and regulatory relevance further.