Combined capillary column gas chromatography/electron capture negative ion chemical ionization mass spectrometry of dihydropyridine calcium antagonists.

Abstract

Several dihydropyridine calcium antagonists showed intense [M]-. ion peaks as the base peaks and a few fragment peaks in the electron capture negative ion chemical ionization mass spectra. The peak intensities of the [M]-. ion of these antagonists were about 100 times as high as those of the most abundant positive ion. The use of a capillary column connected directly to the ion source prevents the oxidation of these agents in the column and the transfer line. Furthermore, the presence of plasma extract decreases the oxidation of these agents in the injection port. The limits of sensitivity with this technique are 500 fg-5 pg on the column. Combined capillary column gas chromatography/electron capture negative ion chemical ionization mass spectrometry should be suitable for sensitive and specific assays of dihydropyridine calcium antagonists in biological fluids.