A Novel Floating In Situ Chewable Gel System for Curcumin Delivery with Potential Application in Obesity Management

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Materials Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Curcumin has anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory effects but poor solubility and bioavailability limit its use.
• Developing effective delivery systems is crucial for enhancing curcumin's therapeutic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a transformable chewable gel for improved oral delivery of curcumin.
• To create a gastroretentive drug delivery system for enhanced anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory effects.

Main Methods:

• Curcumin solid dispersions (CUR-SDs) were prepared using Eudragit® EPO and solvent evaporation.
• Optimized CUR-SDs were incorporated into chewable gels with sodium alginate, κ-carrageenan, and calcium carbonate.
• Formulations were characterized for solubility, dissolution, mechanical strength, floating behavior, and drug release kinetics.

Main Results:

• The optimized CUR-SD (1:3) significantly improved curcumin solubility and dissolution in acidic conditions.
• The chewable gels formed buoyant matrices with sustained drug release up to 8 hours.
• Formulation F7 demonstrated optimal texture, floating, and controlled-release properties, with potent anti-inflammatory and anti-adipogenic activity.

Conclusions:

• The developed in situ gelling chewable platform effectively enhances curcumin's oral bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy.
• This gastroretentive strategy shows promise for treating obesity and related inflammatory conditions.