Extraction of pseudoephedrine from pharmaceutical (Sudafed) tablets.
Pseudoephedrine was extracted from Sudafed tablets using ethanol, ethanol/methanol (90:10% vol/vol) and methylated spirits. The solvents were chosen with reference to the relevant clandestine literature. For each extraction...
Reaction scheme:
Equipment and glassware:
5 L Round bottom flask;
Retort stand and clamp for securing apparatus (optional);
Reflux condenser;
Funnel;
Sieve filter (kitchen grade is ok);
Syringe or Pasteur pipette;
pH indicator papers;
Beakers (500 mL x2, 250 mL x2, 100 mL x2);
Vacuum source...