Abstract
Lamivudine (LAM) is a synthetic nucleoside analogue with activity against human immunodeficiency virus‐type 1 (HIV‐1) and Hepatitis B virus (HBV). The aim of this study was to determine LAM levels in serum and pharmaceutical formulations, by means of electrochemical methods using hanging mercury drop electrode (HMDE). On this electrode, LAM undergoes irreversible reduction at the peak potential near E~p~−1.26 V (vs. Ag/AgCl/3 M KCl). Reduction LAM signals were measured by cyclic voltammetry (CV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and square‐wave voltammetry (OSW). DPV and OSW techniques for the determination of LAM in acetate buffer at pH 4.5, which allows quantitation over the 4×10^−6^ to 1×10^−4^ M range in supporting electrolyte for both methods, were proposed. The linear response was obtained in acetate buffer in the ranges of 2×10^−6^ to 2×10^−4^ M for spiked serum samples at pH 4.5 for both techniques. The repeatability and reproducibility of the methods for all media were determined. The standard addition method was used in serum. Precision and accuracy were also checked in all media. No electroactive interferences from the endogenous substances were found in serum. With respect to side effects of high doses and short half‐life of LAM, a fast and simple detection method is described in this study.