An investigation of digoxin by cyclic voltammetry using gold and silver solid electrodes and chemometric analysis

Digoxin, one of the main cardiac glycosides medication, has shown to have a strong analytical response under investigation by voltammetric analysis using mercury electrodes, achieving nanomole sensitivity. In this study we investigated the suitability of solid electrodes as gold and silver electrodes in voltammetric analysis of this active pharmaceutical ingredient. The scope of the investigation was to evaluate if the use of these solid electrodes, more practical and especially less dangerous, under an operative and environmental aspects could represent a valid further possibility to add to the use of the mercury ones. Both of the solid electrodes have been tested at different pH of 5, 7.4, 10, and 11. PCA analysis has been performed and specific responses achieved. Micromole sensitivity has been achieved for both of the electrodes, showing that the use of these sensors could represent a preliminary analytical approach when the more accurate alternative choice is not necessary, being more practical and less environmental impacting than using mercury.