Formulation and optimization of curcumin solid dispersion pellets for improved solubility

Abstract

Objective: The present study was aimed at designing of solid dispersion based pellets of curcumin (Cu) for improving its solubility. Methods: Solid dispersion (SD) of Cu was prepared by the melt method using Poloxamer 407 (Pol 407) at a different weight ratio of Cu-Pol 407 (1:2, 1:3, 1:5, 1:7, 1:10). The solid dispersion was characterised by FTIR, SEM, DSC, XRD and evaluated for saturation solubility in water, drug content and in vitro dissolution. The pellets of Cu solid dispersion were prepared by extrusion spheronization technique and optimization was performed by 32full factorial design. The pellets were evaluated for size distribution, flow properties, hardness, disintegration and in vitro drug dissolution. Results: From the phase solubility analysis, Pol 407 was selected as a Solid dispersion carrier. The formation of Cu-SD by melt method using Pol 407, was confirmed from FTIR and DSC studies. XRD studies indicated a change of Cu from crystalline to amorphous form. There was a significant increase of Cu when formulated as SD compared to plain Cu. The optimization of extrusion spheronization process revealed the significant effect of Cu-Pol 407 ratio (p<0.0001) on in vitro dissolution of pellets. Higher Cu dissolution was obtained with Cu-SD pellets compared to plain Cu pellets. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated the potential of Cu-SD pellets in improving the solubility of poorly soluble Cu.