UPLC-MS/MS for the Screening, Confirmation and Quantification of 32 Drugs Illegally Added to Herbal/Dietary Supplements for the Enhancement of Male Sexual Performance

The adulteration of herbal/dietary supplements with erectile dysfunction (ED) drugs and their analogies is reported worldwide and is an increasing problem. The sale of so-called 100% ‘all-natural’ products has become a highly profitable business for online pharmacies, however these products can pose a serious threat to consumers owing to the undisclosed presence of approved/prescription drugs or the unknown safety and toxicity profile of unapproved ED drugs.

The aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive method for screening, confirmation and quantification of illegally added ED drugs, and the analogues in herbal and dietary products that are marketed to improve male sexual performance, and imported to Qatar.