Comparative Study on Pharmacokinetics of Zinc Hydroxide and Zinc Sulfate

Abstract

This study aimed to compare the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of zinc hydroxide and zinc sulfate nanoformulations, evaluating their therapeutic potential. It was hypothesized that nanocapsules could enhance the bioavailability, efficacy, and safety of zinc-based medications. A total of 120 patients (47 ± 5 years) were randomly assigned to experimental (n = 60; 30 receiving zinc hydroxide and 30 zinc sulfate) and control groups (n = 60, conventional formulations). Over a 6-month period, solubility, bioavailability, and pharmacokinetic parameters (peak concentration, AUC, and t1/2) were assessed, together with controlled zinc release and biological effects. Nanocapsules were produced by extrusion and stabilization, resulting in particle sizes ranging from 100 to 200 nm. Characterization was performed using dynamic light scattering, zeta potential analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. Inflammatory markers (TNF-alpha and IL-6) and antioxidant activity were determined by ELISA. Nanocapsules exhibited higher bioavailability (90 ± 4%) than conventional formulations (81 ± 5%; p = 0.024, based on AUC calculated from total plasma concentration over 24 h). TNF-alpha (9.8 ± 1.5 pg mL-¹) and IL-6 (8.2 ± 1.2 pg mL-¹) levels were significantly lower in the experimental group, approximately 30% below those of the control group (p < 0.01). Antioxidant activity increased to 104 ± 12 U mg-¹ protein. Zinc sulfate nanocapsules achieved higher peak plasma concentrations and more sustained release than zinc hydroxide and conventional formulations. These findings demonstrate that zinc nanocapsules improve bioavailability, reduce inflammation, and enhance antioxidant activity compared with conventional preparations, supporting the potential use of zinc sulfate and zinc hydroxide nanocapsules as more effective treatments for zinc deficiency and related disorders.