The effect of gamma-radiation on nitroimidazole derivatives.

The effect of gamma irradiation, in doses from 10 to 50 kGy on physical and chemical properties of metronidazole, ornidazole and tynidazole in solid state has been studied. Results of the measurements by the UV, IR, TLC, EPR, DSC methods revealed the presence of free radicals, products of decomposition, an increase in the melting point and a decrease or increase in the content of the substance studied. Microbiological assays proved that sterilization of the compounds studied was effective even with the smallest irradiation dose applied. The maximum tolerated dose and the safe sterilisation dose were determined.