OBJECTIVETo develop a HPLC method for determination of triptolide in tripterygium total terpenoids tablets.

METHODA Lichrospher CN column was used with ethanol and water for gradient elution. The detection wavelength was set at 255 nm.

RESULTThe linear relationship of the concentrations and peak areas was good in range of 0.742-59.4 microg x mL(-1) (r = 0.9998). The average recovery was 99.2%, RSD% = 1.7%.

CONCLUSIONThe method is simple, rapid and accurate and can be used for quality control of the tablets.

Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid ; methods ; Diterpenes ; analysis ; Epoxy Compounds ; Phenanthrenes ; analysis ; Plants, Medicinal ; chemistry ; Quality Control ; Tablets ; Terpenes ; administration & dosage ; chemistry ; isolation & purification ; Tripterygium ; chemistry