A sensitive method detecting trace levels of levonorgestrel using LC-HRMS

Contraception. 2019 Sep;100(3):247-249. doi: 10.1016/j.contraception.2019.06.001. Epub 2019 Jun 16.

Abstract

Objective: To develop a high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) method to quantify levonorgestrel (LNG) in serum.

Study design: Levonorgestrel was extracted using solid phase extraction and measured using liquid chromatography (LC) HRMS.

Results: Low limit of quantification (LLOQ) was 25 pg/mL and low limit of detection (LLOD) was 12.5 pg/mL. Precision and accuracy bias were <10%. LNG in serum samples from Mirena® users ranged between 37 to 219 pg/mL (n=12). In eight out of 22 patients with suspected intrauterine device (IUD) expulsion LNG was detected (26-1272 pg/mL).

Conclusion: A sensitive, fast and simple LC-HRMS method was developed to detect trace levels of LNG.

Keywords: High resolution mass spectrometry; Intrauterine device; Liquid chromatography; Lower limit of quantification; Solid phase extraction.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Chromatography, Liquid
  • Intrauterine Devices*
  • Levonorgestrel / analysis*
  • Mass Spectrometry
  • Solid Phase Extraction*

Substances

  • Levonorgestrel