Silica xerogels as pharmaceutical drug carriers

This review focuses on silica xerogels obtained by the sol-gel method and their application as drug delivery systems. SiO2 xerogels are potential biomaterials to be used as matrix materials for the extended and controlled release of different kinds of biologically active agents administered by various routes. The article includes some representative examples that describe the encapsulation of bioactive molecules and model compounds inside a silica matrix produced by the conventional sol-gel method or by ultrasound hydrolysis. The drug release rate from xerogels could be modified by adjusting several parameters, such as the type of precursor, the concentration of the catalyst and drying temperature. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown the efficacy and biodegradability of these composites. The potential application of silica xerogels as drug carrier systems is critically analyzed and discussed.