Abstract

The work involves the development of basic tests for sildenafil citrate (drug substance) and sildenafil citrate tablet (dosage form). The Basic Tests encompass physical observation, melting characteristics, colour and other test reactions for the drug substance and the dosage form. These tests are supplemented with thin layer chromatography. The test tube identification reactions were carried out to demonstrate the presence of the phenyl ether and sulphonamide functional groups as well as the N-substituted piperazine and pyrimidine rings on the molecule. The presence of sulphur and nitrogen in the drug moiety were also confirmed. The R_fvalues obtained from the chromatograms using three different solvent systems were found to be approximately same for sildenafil in the extracted form and the powdered tablet. A summary of test result for sildenafil citrate and sildenafil citrate tablet is presented that could be of use in quick verification of the identity of the drug.  

Key words: Basic tests, sildenafil citrate, identity, verification.