Inorganic
nanoparticles (NPs) and nanocomposites (NCs) generally
possess versatile properties, that is, good specific surface area
(SSA), magnetism, easy functionalization with ligands, etc.; thus,
such nanomaterials have rapidly been appearing in drug release and
diagnosis. This review presents the sonochemical synthesis of nano-SiO2, magnetic Fe3O4, graphene oxide, metal–organic
frameworks, ZnO, Ca3(PO4)2, and ZrP2O7, and their NCs. The cavitation effects, such
as extremely high temperature and pressure, radical reactions, high-speed
microjets, shock waves, deagglomeration, and strong hydrodynamic shear-forces
at collapsing cavities assist the preparation of inorganic NPs and
NCs. As compared to conventional hydrothermal synthesis, the ultrasound
(US)-assisted method can shorten preparation time and reduce particle
size. Moreover, the prepared NPs are much more uniform in size distribution
and form. Most US-assisted prepared NPs and NCs were proven to be
appropriate as drug nanocarriers. Also, the drug release mechanisms
are briefly presented and discussed. Furthermore, the effects of ultrasonic
equipment, power, sonication time, substrate concentration, pH value,
and surfactants on the characteristics and morphology of NPs and NCs
are summarized.