Development and validation of an RP-HPLC method for determination of valganciclovir in human serum and tablets

This paper describes the validation of an isocratic high-performance liquid chromatographic method for the assay of valganciclovir in raw materials, tablets and human serum samples. Valganciclovir and fluvastatin (internal standard) were well separated using a reversed phase column and a mobile phase consisting of a mixture of acetonitrile:metkanol:KH2PO4 (0.02 M) (40:20:40; v/v/v) (at pH 5.0). The mobile phase was pumped at 1.0 mL min(-1) flow rate and valganciclovir was detected by diode-array detection at 255 nm. The retention times for valganciclovir and fluvastatin were 3.41 and 5.60 min, respectively. A linear response (r > 0.999) was observed in the range of 10-30,000 ng mL(-1) in mobile phase and serum. The limit of detection and limit of quantification were found as 2.95 and 9.82 ng mL(-1) in mobile phase and 1.73 and 5.77 ng mL(-1) in human serum samples, respectively. Validation parameters as precision, accuracy, selectivity, reproducibility and system suitability tests were also determined. The method can be used for valganciclovir assay of tablets and human serum samples as the method separates valganciclovir from tablet excipients and endogenous substances.