The invention provides an implantable article, a method of preparing the same, and methods of modifying a ceramic-coated implantable article. The implantable article comprises a biocompatible substrate and a bioactive ceramic surface coating into which a biological agent is incorporated. The preparation and modification of an implantable article involve incubating a biocompatible substrate surface or pre-existing ceramic coating thereon with a composition comprising (i) a biological agent, (ii) calcium ions, (iii) phosphate ions, and (iv) a liquid carrier.