Solid Dispersion of Curcumin as Polymeric Films for Bioenhancement and Improved Therapy of Rheumatoid Arthritis

The aim of our study was development of advanced third generation Curcumin self microemulsifying composition solid dispersion (Cur SMEC-SD) with high drug loading, improved stability, rapid in-vitro dissolution and enhanced bioavailability for improved therapy of rheumatoid arthritis.

The Cur SMEC-SD comprising polymers (KollidonVA64[KVA], Eudragits, HPMC and Soluplus) and self microemulsifying composition of surfactant:co-surfactant:oil were coated onto rapidly disintegrating inert tablet core. SDs evaluated for stability, in-vitro release and bioenhancement.

Cur SMEC-SDs exhibited high Cur loading of 45% w/w and microemulsion formation with globule size (~100 nm) irrespective of polymers. Among the polymers, SD with KVA revealed exceptionally low contact angle (7°C) and rapid in-vitro release (t50%-6.45 min). No crystallization was evident as confirmed by SEM, DSC and XRD and is attributed to SMEC aided solubilization/amorphisation, and interaction of KVA with Cur seen in the FTIR spectra. Stability was confirmed as per ICH guidelines. Remarkable bioenhancement with Cur SMEC-SD was confirmed by the > four fold and a two fold compared to Cur and Cur-SD without SMEC respectively. High efficacy ~ 80% compared to Indomethacin, seen with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) induced rats coupled with no adverse toxicity.

The advanced third generation Cur SMEC-SD presents a practical technological advancement and suggests Cur SMEC-SD as promising alternative for RA therapy.