Formulation and physical characterization of curcumin nanoparticle transdermal patch

Abstract

Objective: This study was conducted to formulate curcumin nanoparticles transdermal patches and to evaluate their physical characterization. Methods: Curcumin nanoparticles transdermal patches were formulated by the casting evaporation method. Transdermal patches were made using combinations of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and ethyl cellulose (EC) at ratios of 4.5:1.5 for Formula 1 (F1), 4:1 for Formula 2 (F2), 3.5:1.5 for Formula 3 (F3), 3:2 for Formula 4 (F4), and 2.5:2.5 for Formula 5 (F5). Physical characterization evaluation (organoleptic properties, pH, weight uniformity, thickness uniformity, percent moisture content, and tensile strength) was then performed. The permeation of curcumin nanoparticles into the skin was evaluated using Franz diffusion cells. Results: Curcumin nanoparticles transdermal patches could be formulated by the casting evaporation method with the organoleptic properties characterized as smooth, dry, yellow in color, having menthol odor, and transparent. The pH values ranged between 5.0 and 6.0. The thickness of the patches ranged from 0.1 to 0.2 mm. The average of the patches’ weight was 0.7 g, and the percent moisture content ranged from 1.0 to 6.0%. The tensile strength values were 1.0 to 2.0 N/mm. Curcumin nanoparticles could penetrate into the skin with flux values being 1.271 µg. cm-2 (F1), 0.938 µg. cm-2 (F2), 0.775 µg. cm-2 (F3), 0.837 µg. cm-2 (F4), and 0.569 µg. cm-2 (F5). Conclusion: All patches met the requirement of the physical characterization for the transdermal patch.