Evaluation of stationary phases based on silica hydride for the analysis of drugs of abuse.

Several stationary phases based on silica hydride were evaluated as possible separation media for drugs of abuse. In the RP mode both a C18 and a phenyl column were tested using ACN/water and methanol/water mobile phases with formic acid or ammonium formate as modifiers. Detection was performed using MS, so separation of isobaric species was a factor in selecting the column, mobile phase composition, and gradient. A number of sample preparation procedures were also included as part of determining the most appropriate experimental protocol on these types of stationary phases. Morphine was used as a model for developing a protocol that would be suitable for the analysis of hydrophilic drugs.