Pathways for N-Nitroso Compound Formation: Secondary Amines and Beyond

Recent drug recalls (e.g., valsartan and ranitidine) linked to the discovery of nitrosamine impurities have led to increased regulatory scrutiny in the manufacturing process of marketed medicines, notably for determining any sources of risk for nitrosamine (or related N-nitroso compound) formation within the manufacturing process. This review seeks to aid the risk assessment process through identifying known conditions and reactants through which N-nitroso compounds can be formed.