Parasitic worm infestations (e.g., tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms, and pinworms) are common to children of developing countries and are considered to be a roadblock to the social and economic development of these countries. Albendazole is a commonly used oral medication for the treatment of parasitic worm infestations. Because albendazole is a safe and effective medication, the World Health Organization (WHO) placed albendazole, a benzimidazole carbamate anthelmintic, as an essential medicine, meaning that all people should have access to albendazole in sufficient amounts at all times. Unfortunately, in developing countries such as Nepal and China, the quality of this essential medicine is suspect. In an extensive sample collection study in Nepal in summer 2016, including 180 samples of albendazole, Barstis found that albendazole was often stored improperly and distributed past its expiration date. Additionally, DiLallo conducted a preliminary sample collection study in China in summer 2017, collecting 55 samples of albendazole in two diverse regions. China is one of the largest manufacturers of counterfeit medicines and several Chinese drug companies are banned from selling in the US due to not meeting FDA regulations. This research focuses on the results of a general paper analytical device (PAD) used both in the field and the laboratory to screen for low-quality albendazole. These PADs are slightly larger than business cards, use colorimetric chemistry to screen for select ingredients, and can be completed in less than five minutes. A US Pharmacopeia validated method for HPLC, as well as an independent UPLC-MS method being developed at Saint Mary’s College, are being used to validate the PADs data. Additionally, a specific “Albendazole PAD” with semi-quantitative tests for albendazole and common excipients is being developed. All results will be presented.

HPLC verification of paper analytical devices to screen for low-quality albendazole

255th National Meeting (2018)

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