Formulation, Characterization, and In Vitro Analysis of a Curcumin-Loaded Lecithin-Coconut Oil-Based Emulgel for...

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Dermatology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Curcumin exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties beneficial for burn management.
• Coconut oil offers skin-moisturizing, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Burn management requires effective topical delivery systems for therapeutic agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate curcumin-loaded coconut oil-based emulgel formulations.
• To enhance therapeutic outcomes in burn management through improved topical drug delivery.
• To investigate the physicochemical and structural characteristics of the developed emulgels.

Main Methods:

• Eight emulgel formulations were prepared using lecithin, hyaluronic acid, and coconut oil.
• Formulations were assessed for organoleptic and physicochemical properties (pH, viscosity, spreadability, drug content).
• In vitro drug release, structural characteristics (microscopy, SEM), and release kinetics were evaluated.

Main Results:

• Emulgels exhibited a bi-continuous system with a 3D network structure.
• Physicochemical evaluations showed suitable pH, viscosity, spreadability, and high drug content (82-95%).
• High in vitro drug release (88-93%) was observed, with promising anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound healing effects.

Conclusions:

• Curcumin-loaded coconut oil emulgel demonstrates significant potential for burn management.
• The formulation offers enhanced topical drug delivery and therapeutic benefits.
• Further research is recommended to optimize parameters for clinical application in wound healing.