On-line liquid-chromatographic analysis for drugs in serum with the Technicon "FAST-LC" system: performance data for theophylline and for four commonly used anticonvulsants and their metabolites.

We describe a new instrument for use in assay of therpeutic drugs in serum by "high-performance" liquid chromatography, the "FAST-LC" system (Technicon). Serum samples are aspirated directly into the unit, extracted with solvent, and the evaporated and redissolved extract is injected onto a chromatographic column. We illustrate the performance of the system by assays in serum for theophylline and four anticonvulsants (primidone, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and carbamazepine) plus two of their active metabolites (phenylethylmalonamide and carbamazepine epoxide). For theophylline, final chromatograms are monitored at 270 nm, at analysis rates of 10/h. Concentration and absorbance are linearly related from 0 to 130 mg of theophylline per liter. For the anticonvulsants, chromatograms are monitored at 200 nm, at analysis rates of 7.5/h. The six individual determinations are each linear beyond the therapeutic range. For both drug panels, day-to-day CV's were 4 to 6%. Results correlate well with those by enzyme immunoassay. A total sample volume of 150 microL is required.