SOLID DISPERSION AS A POTENTIAL APPROACH TO IMPROVE DISSOLUTION AND BIOAVAILABILITY OF CURCUMIN FROM TURMERIC (CURCUMA LONGA L.)

Abstract

This review article attempts to outline techniques and solid dispersion carriers that have been applied to improve curcumin's solubility and bioavailability in turmeric extract. This paper also examines the variables that impact the efficacy of curcumin solid dispersion. Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) contains curcuminoids as bioactive compounds consisting of curcumin, dimethoxy-curcumin, and bis-dimethoxy-curcumin. Curcumin, as the main component, is proven to have several pharmacological effects. However, it has limitations in modern drug development, such as poor stability, solubility, and bioavailability. Many studies have been conducted to overcome these limitations, including the application of solid dispersion. The preparation methods of curcumin solid dispersions are carried out by solvent evaporation, fusion/melting, and co-milling, using various types of carriers. However, the formation of a solid dispersion system only sometimes provides a considerable improvement in solubility, dissolution, and bioavailability. Differences in the selection of preparation methods, carriers, and solvents result in various arrangements of particles in the solid dispersion that may affect the performance of the system. In addition, the type of carrier also has a role in increasing curcumin permeability and bioavailability. Hydrophilic surfactant carriers have inhibitory activity against body transporters, such as P-gp and MRP, that can help to increase curcumin’s bioavailability. Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent (NADES) as a novel alternative solvent also has promising opportunities for the development of curcumin solid dispersion. Therefore, selecting appropriate preparation methods, carriers, and solvents should be considered to achieve optimum solubility, dissolution, and bioavailability of curcumin.