Chromatographic Detection and Determination of Cyproheptadine and Dexamethasone as Adulterants in Weight Gain Supplements.

BACKGROUND

The increasing popularity of herbal medicines and dietary supplements has raised concern about potential adulteration with pharmaceutical drugs.

OBJECTIVE

To detect and determine cyproheptadine (CYP) and dexamethasone (DEX) as adulterants in weight gain herbal supplements found in the Iraqi market.

METHODS

Nine herbal supplements marketed as natural weight gainers were purchased from local pharmacies and were screened using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for qualitative and quantitative detection of CYP and DEX.

RESULTS

CYP was detected in seven of the nine products at levels of 2.65-8.6 mg per dosage unit. DEX was detected in all test solutions at levels of 6.2-18.75 mg per dosage unit.

CONCLUSION

A large proportion of herbal weight gain supplements was found to contain undeclared pharmaceuticals with severe health implications. The findings call for the immediate institution of tighter regulatory control and regular quality control tests in the name of consumer safety.

HIGHLIGHTS: Herbals and supplements for weight gain are increasingly popular but may be adulterated with pharmaceutical drugs that impose serious health risks for consumers. There is an urgent need for regulatory enforcement and routine quality checks are recommended.