LAUSR

Abstract The theoretical and experimental study of the use of beta-type zeolite as a carrier for the isoniazid drug was evaluated. For that, the study of adsorption isotherm was carried out to understand aspects of interaction and saturation of zeolite by the drug, applying the mathematical models of Langmuir and Freundlich for the interpretation of the data. A hybrid obtained by the adsorption of the drug in zeolite was characterized by several techniques. The results of adsorption and characterization were compared to the results of molecular modeling in order to understand the interactions involved and the way that the drug is disposed within the zeolitic structure. Finally, in vitro release kinetics studies were carried out in acidic dissolution medium at pH 3 and in simulated intestinal fluid without enzymes (pH 6.8) to simulate the release profiles in the gastrointestinal tract. The results showed the retention of approximately 110 mg of isoniazid per gram of zeolite, where the characterizations and molecular modeling proved that the drug is adsorbed within the zeolitic structure, mainly in the micropores. The release kinetics showed a greater resistance of the drug to be released in an acid medium than in intestinal fluid. These results open the way for further studies on the use of this zeolite as an excipient for drugs.