Exploring the Thermal-Oxidative Stability of Azithromycin Using a Thermoactivated Sensor Based on Cerium Molybdate and Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes

Abstract

The chemical stability of azithromycin (AZM) may be compromised depending on the imposed thermo-oxidative conditions. This report addresses evidence of this process under varying conditions of temperature (20–80 °C), exposure time to UV radiation (1–3 h irradiation at 257 nm), and air saturation (1–3 h saturation with atmospheric air at 1.2 L min−1 and 15 kPa) through electrochemical measurements performed with a thermoactivated cerium molybdate (Ce2(MoO4)3)/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT)-based composite electrode. Thermal treatment at 120 °C led to coordinated water elimination in Ce2(MoO4)3, improving its electrocatalytic effect on antibiotic oxidation, while MWCNT were essential to reduce the charge-transfer resistance and promote signal amplification. Theoretical–experimental data revealed remarkable reactivity for the irreversible oxidation of AZM on the working sensor using phosphate buffer (pH = 8) prepared in CH3OH/H2O (10:90%, v/v). Highly sensitive (230 nM detection limit) and precise (RSD < 4.0%) measurements were recorded under these conditions. The results also showed that AZM reduces its half-life as the temperature, exposure time to UV radiation, and air saturation increase. This fact reinforces the need for continuous quality control of AZM-based pharmaceuticals, using conditions closer to those observed during their transport and storage, reducing impacts on consumers’ health.