A rapid analytical method for quantifying 17 ginsenosides in rat urine by ultra performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) coupled to electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) is described. All analytes were extracted by solid-phase extraction optimized to obtain good recovery and quantified using digoxin as an internal standard. ESI-MS was optimized for different cone voltages at positive ionization mode to allow simultaneous analysis of all analytes in a relatively short time. Qualitative methodological considerations, including the linear range, precision, limit of quantification, limit of detection, recovery and sensitivity are also provided.
