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*Corresponding Author R.M. Sharma, Ph. D. Department of Forensic Science, Punjabi University, Patiala-147002, India Phone:
Antidepressants have been a major cause of mortality all over the word. Their use and abuse is a common problem in many countries. The present article describes the utility of derivative UV spectrophotometry in the analysis of some common antidepressants having abuse potential. The samples solutions were prepared using methanol as the solvent and then they were subjected to derivative UV spectrophotometry. The conversion of normal zero order spectrum into higher order spectrum not only provides the more points for visual comparison but it also enhances the resolution. The present method is rapid, non destructive and no extensive sample preparation is required. Although it doesn't provide an absolute identification of compound it is very useful in elimination of compounds.
Antidepressants, derivative ultraviolet spectrophotometry, drugs of abuse