Current analytical methods to monitor type 2 diabetes medication in biological samples

We review the current analytical methods for analyzing type 2 diabetes (T2D) medication in human and animal samples. We discuss the advantages and limitations during sample preparation, separation, and detection of these drugs. Finally, we highlight the parameters to be considered for multi-targeted analytical methods and for assessing T2D medication adherence. By reviewing over 140 original papers, we can conclude that current analytical methods for T2D drug analysis involve: (1) extraction using protein precipitation with acetonitrile or methanol, (2) reversed-phase liquid chromatography separation using octadecyl (C18)-based columns with analysis time <20 min, and (3) electrospray ionization in positive ion mode with a triple quadrupole or quadrupole/linear ion trap mass analyzer. Methods for screening antidiabetics were limited to 1–5 analytes, far less than in other areas, such as analysis of cardiovascular agents, anticancer drugs, or drug screening for forensic services.