Sodium alginate/polyvinylpyrrolidone/lapatinib-loaded Zr–metal organic framework: biocompatibility evaluation and pH-responsive <i>in vitro</i> drug release for oral delivery applications

Abstract

release studies showed minimal lapatinib release (13%) over 48 h under simulated gastric conditions (pH 1.2), whereas drug release reached 91% at intestinal pH (6.8) during the same period. These findings indicate that the system can intrinsically prevent premature gastric release, emphasizing its potential to achieve high therapeutic effects at lower doses with reduced side effects. Biocompatibility assays indicated over 94% viability in the relevant cell lines after 24 and 48 h, indicating the favorable cytocompatibility of the composites. Overall, this composite platform provides controlled, sustained, and site-specific release of lapatinib, which could potentially enhance oral bioavailability, reduce dosage frequency, and systemic toxicity.