Sensitive method for determination of piplartine, an alkaloid amide from Piper species, in rat plasma samples by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

Piplartine (PPTN) is an alkaloid amide found in Piper species that presents different activities. PPTN determination in rat plasma is necessary to better understand its biological effects. The aim of this study was to develop a sensitive LC-MS/MS method for the determination of PPTN in rat plasma. The performance criteria for linearity, sensitivity, precision, accuracy, recovery, and stability have been assessed and were within the recommended guidelines. The validated method proved to be suitable in a pilot study of PPTN kinetic disposition in rat plasma after a single intraperitoneal dose, and represents an appropriate tool to further pharmacokinetic studies.