HPLC Method for Analysis of Ketamine Form on Zodiac HST B Column

Ketamine is a medication widely used for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia, with additional analgesic and sedative properties. It belongs to the arylcyclohexylamine class and is chemically known as (RS)-2-(2-chlorophenyl)-2-(methylamino)cyclohexanone.

Its primary mechanism of action is as an NMDA receptor antagonist, which contributes to its anesthetic and analgesic effects. In recent years, ketamine has gained attention for its rapid-acting antidepressant effects in treatment-resistant depression. However, due to its dissociative and hallucinogenic effects at lower doses, ketamine is classified as a controlled substance in many countries.

Ketamine can be effectively retained and analyzed using a Zodiac HST B mixed-mode stationary phase column. The analysis is performed using an isocratic method with a mobile phase consisting of water, acetonitrile (MeCN), and sulfuric acid as a buffer. Detection is achieved using UV at 200 nm.