Conversion of a USP Gas Chromatography Method to Convergence Chromatography: Analysis of Atropa Belladonna

■ ■ UPC2 method compatible with mass spectrometry for identification of unknown components IN T RODUC T ION The extract of Atropa belladonna, a perennial native to south and central Europe, North Africa, and East Asia has been used for centuries to treat a number of medical conditions, including ulcers and other gastrointestinal disorders, and pain. It is also used as an anti-muscarinic agent. The extract is primarily composed of the tropane alkaloids, scopolamine and hyoscyamine (atropine), which are not only effective medicinal agents but are also highly toxic. This dichotomy makes quantification of these alkaloids in extracts critical for safety.