Identification of Two Novel Hydroperoxide Impurities in Fluocinolone Acetonide Topical Solution by Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry

Abstract

Fluocinolone acetonide topical is used to treat skin discomforts such as swelling, itching and redness by activating the natural substances in the skin. Several process-related impurities and degradation products are identified and reported. But hydroperoxide impurities in Fluocinolone acetonide topical solution are not reported anywhere. In this study, we identify two potential genotoxic isomeric hydroperoxide impurities in Fluocinolone acetonide topical solution by Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry analysis. A possible mechanism for the formation of these two novel hydroperoxide impurities is based on the neighboring group participation effect of adjacent hydroxyl group (Internal SN2) which results in the loss of fluorine atom and formation of epoxide intermediate followed by the addition of the HOOH group. Since most of the hydroperoxide impurities are genotoxic in nature, one should eliminate these impurities from Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) or protect the formulation product from these oxidative impurities.