N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) has been detected in ranitidine, a histamine H2-receptor antagonist which blocks enterochromaffin-like cells (ECL cells) from producing histamine. Histamine stimulates the parietal cells to release acid causing irritation of the gullet (acid reflux), which can lead to inflammation of the gullet (oesophagitis). NDMA is a known contaminant in some brands of over-the-counter (OTC) H2-receptor antagonists. It has been proposed that the contamination source is likely due to an inherent instability of the ranitidine molecule, which can under a decomposition to form<b> </b>a nitrite and dimethylamine (DMA) which are well known to combine to form NDMA. NDMA is considered a chemical that can increase the risk of cancer in humans. Two compatible methods were used to detect NDMA in ranitidine, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GCMS) using low temperature head space injection and high-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (HPLCMS).

Detection of N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) in ranitidine, a histamine-2 receptor antagonist

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.