HPLC Analysis of Drug Norco on Heritage MA Mixed-Mode Column

Application description

Hydrocodone/paracetamol, also known as hydrocodone/acetaminophen or hydrocodone/APAP is the combination of an opioid pain medication, hydrocodone, with paracetamol (acetaminophen). It is used as a prescription drug to relieve moderate to severe pain. It exists in tablet, elixir, and solution forms in various strengths for oral administration. Vicodin is Schedule II controlled substance. Hydrocodone diversion and recreational use has escalated in recent years due to its opioid effects. Norco was analyzed with isocratic conditions to provide fast, reliable and robust method for analysis of both components of the drug combination - hydrocodone and acetaminophen. Compounds are retained and separated on Heritage MA HPLC column in reversed-phase and cation-exclusion mechanisms. Retention time, selectivity, and resolution between peaks can be adjusted by modification of amount of ACN, buffer and buffer pH. Various mobile phases can be used with Heritage MA column to accommodate different detection techniques (UV, MS, CAD, ELSD detection).