Applying Quality-by-Design approaches to analytical method development has many benefits. It emphasizes the identification of the sources of variability and their impact on method performance.

Analytical methods are required to be developed at different stages of the pharmaceutical product life cycle. Two of the most widely used strategies for method development are: one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) and analytical quality-by-design approach (AQbD).

Dr. Fadi Alkhateeb of Waters Corporation discusses his recent method development work.

What does it mean to develop a good LC method?

With Method Lifecycle Management (MLCM) we focus not only on the quality of the analytical method but also on the quality of the reportable result. The goal is to generate quality data across the life of a method.

Tracking peaks across different chromatograms in the method development process can be challenging. This is because sample components could shift, switch retention times, or even coeleute under different separation conditions. Many method development protocols rely on ultra violet (UV) spectral data only to track peaks. Despite the potential benefits of such protocols they can still have some limitations.

The goal of a method development process is to find a well-working and robust method that consistently delivers the expected performance throughout its lifecycle. This process can be very complex and time-consuming, especially if multiple chromatographic parameters need to be explored.