Calcium zeolites as intelligent carriers in controlled release of bisphosphonates

This work describes the synthesis of calcium zeolites (type A and X) and their use as drug carriers. This is the first example of using calcium zeolites as intelligent carriers that release drugs under the influence of body fluids. Both zeolites and zeolite/drug systems have been extensively characterized. It has been proven that calcium zeolites can be used as carriers of bisphosphonates (drugs against skeletal system diseases). This is due to the fact that phosphonate groups have strong interactions with calcium ions. The sorption of risedronate on zeolites in the sodium form was also carried out, but it was ineffective. The lack of effectiveness of sorption on the sodium zeolites confirms the theoretical assumptions presented in this work. Sorption occurred faster on type A zeolites while the release is faster for type X zeolites. Loading capacity (LC%) were at least 10% for both zeolite forms. The release may take over 100 h depending on the form of zeolite which will be used. The obtained materials have great potential as a drug carrier in enteric-coated tablets as well as an element of implants allowing for controlled drug release.