http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.supflu.2012.11.006,

Facile and robust fabrication methodologies of complex materials with high added value for controlled drug delivery systems are highly sought-after in the pharmaceutical industry. Here, we have relied on the use of supercritical fluids for the matrix synthesis as well as for the drug impregnation process. As a model system of a hydrophobic and moisture sensitive active agent, triflusal was impregnated in different aerogel and polymeric matrices using supercritical CO₂. In vitro release profiles of drug carriers consisting of SiO₂ aerogels as mesoporous monoliths and as microporous nanospheres loaded with triflusal are reported and compared to a more conventional polymeric system (PMMA). Silica-based matrices are found to prevent the hydrolization of the active ingredient more efficiently than the polymeric matrix and displayed much faster release kinetics. Moreover, the triflusal is dispersed in a molecular form inside the silica-based materials. Such features are considered of great interest to enhance the bioavailability of low solubility drugs.