Development of an analytical procedure for the examination of colchicine alkaloid (C₂₂H₂₅ NO₆) for poisoning cases

This study was conducted to develop an analytical method for the extraction and identification of colchicine alkaloid. Toxicological analysis finds its utmost importance in Clinical Toxicology and Forensic Toxicology. Colchicum, a plant poison, is the causal factor for a number of accidental and suicidal poisoning cases. A standard methodology for its analysis would be useful for identification followed by quantification of the poison under question. To obtain the methodology, TLC solvent systems are developed and validated using HPLC and UV/Vis Spectrophotometry. The outcome of the study finds its application in separation and identification. Identification of colchicine in various body fluids and visceral organs can be carried out for toxicological analysis in cases of Suicide, Homicide, and Accidental poisoning. The findings of the study can also be utilized for checking the purity and identifications of colchicine in pharmaceutical formulations, chemical, and biochemical analysis.