A mechanized system for the determination of beta-blockers in pharmaceutical formulations is presented. Using the Sequential Injection Analysis (SIA) technique it was achieved a simple, economical and versatile methodology adaptable to any pharmaceutical control involving these substances. It does not require any pre-treatment for the samples, as they must only be dissolved in acid before analysis. Linear calibration plots were obtained for metoprolol (40.52 - 250 mg L-1), acebutolol (32.85 - 140 mg L-1) and propranolol (16.58 - 120 mg L-1). A R.S.D. lower than 5% was attained. The methodology was used in tablets, injections and prolonged-release capsules. Common excipients used in pharmaceuticals do not interfere. Statistical comparison of the results obtained with the proposed methodology and with the official methods showed good agreement (95% confidence level). SIA system produces only 2.50 mL of effluents per determination whereas the reference methodologies consume around 140 mL.
beta-blockers; sequential injection analysis; SIA; spectrophotometry; pharmaceutical formulations
