Green analytical chemistry in gabapentin analysis: Methods and sustainability review

• GP’s lack of chromophore challenges detection, often needing derivatization reagents. • High-toxic solvent use in GP methods calls for greener, ecological alternatives. • Eco-friendly solvents proposed to reduce environmental impact in GP analysis. • Balancing applicability and eco-impact key to sustainable GP analytical methods. • CACI is a new tool that objectively compares analytical methods on simplicity and functionality. Gabapentin (GP), widely prescribed for seizures and neuropathic pain, requires effective therapeutic monitoring and pharmaceutical quality control. Current analytical methods, such as UV spectrophotometry, HPLC, GC–MS, and LC-MS/MS, often rely on environmentally hazardous solvents and high-energy processes. This review evaluates analytical methods for GP till 2024, focusing on their eco-friendliness using green analytical chemistry (GAC) metrics. The study highlights the lack of concern for solvent toxicity, energy consumption, and waste generation in existing methodologies. Greenness assessment tools like GAPI, MoGAPI, AGREE, BAGI, AES reveal significant gaps in sustainability. This review underscores the need to develop greener analytical techniques for GP and advocate for eco-friendly solvents, reduced waste, and optimized energy use. Integrating GAC principles into analytical practices can enhance sustainability and robustness, reducing the environmental footprint of GP analysis. By compiling this information, the review aims to guide researchers in adopting innovative, eco-conscious methodologies, and aligning analytical procedures with sustainable chemistry goals.