Analysis of 5-(4-acetamidophenyl)pyrazin-2(1H)-one (SK&F 94120) in plasma with an Analytichem automated sample processor liquid chromatography module.

A selective and specific assay for 5-(4-acetamidophenyl)pyrazin-2(1H)-one (SK&F 94120), a novel inotropic agent, has been developed. The method incorporates a liquid-solid extraction step with a C18 Analytichem automated sample processor (AASP) cassette, which consists of ten miniature extraction columns. The cassette is then loaded into the AASP auto injector, ready for automated liquid chromatography with UV detection. The AASP consists of a high-pressure sealing chamber which encapsulates each column. The high-performance liquid chromatographic mobile phase is directed through the chamber, and the analytes are eluted onto the analytical column for subsequent separation and measurement. The assay is sufficiently accurate and precise to determine SK&F 94120 at concentrations as low as 0.5 mg/l. The mean coefficient of variation for the concentration range 0.5-10.0 mg/l was 2% with a bias of +/- 1%. The assay has been used for pharmacokinetic and bioavailability studies in several species, including rat, dog, and cynomolgus monkey.