Analysis of injectable drugs (Pentazocine and Diazepam) sampled from shops and companies in Anambra State, Nigeria

John A. Ezugwu 1, *, Sylvia I. Okonkwo 1, Edith C. Ezugwu 2, Okonkwo C. Kenechukwu 3 and Chinwe C. Okonkwo 4

1 Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Anambra state Nigeria.
2 Department of Biochemistry Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka Anambra State Nigeria.
3 Department of Medicine and Surgery Kaplan Medical Test and Prep Institute USA.
4 Department of Medicine and Surgery Caribbean Medical University, Curaçao USA.
 
Research Article
Open Access Research Journal of Chemistry and Pharmacy, 2023, 03(02), 026–048.
Article DOI: 10.53022/oarjcp.2023.3.2.0058
Publication history: 
Received on 09 April 2023; revised on 01 June 2023; accepted on 04 June 2023
 
Abstract: 
The incidences of drug adulteration and drug resistance have been a major problem facing mankind in recent years. Low and medium-income countries like Nigeria are most affected. An investigation was carried out to determine the quality of Pentazocine and Diazepam injections in circulation in Anambra State. The injections were sampled from different markets, shops, and pharmaceutical companies within the State. Imported and locally manufactured brands of the injections were analysed. Identification, pH, Assays, Bacteria Endotoxin, sterility, and sub-visible particulate matter contamination were analysed. The results of the Identification, Bacteria Endotoxin (BET), Particulate matter count, and pH are all within the British Pharmacopeia. The Pentazocine Assays obtained were (98.31%- 102.5%) which are within the British Pharmacopeia limit of (95% – 105%). This is good for health management. The Assays of two of the Diazepam injections tested were between (111.33% - 111.53%), which is above the approved British Pharmacopeia limit of (90%-110%). This is an indication of high level of impurities and not good for health care management.
 
Keywords: 
Pentazocine; Diazepam; Adulterated Drugs; Sterility Test
 
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