Curcumin Formulations for Better Bioavailability: What We Learned from Clinical Trials Thus Far?

Abstract

Curcumin has been credited with a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties for the prevention and treatment of several chronic diseases such as arthritis, autoimmune diseases, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hemoglobinopathies, hypertension, infectious diseases, inflammation, metabolic syndrome, neurological diseases, obesity, and skin diseases. However, due to its weak solubility and bioavailability, it has limited potential as an oral medication. Numerous factors including low water solubility, poor intestinal permeability, instability at alkaline pH, and fast metabolism contribute to curcumin’s limited oral bioavailability. In order to improve its oral bioavailability, different formulation techniques such as coadministration with piperine, incorporation into micelles, micro/nanoemulsions, nanoparticles, liposomes, solid dispersions, spray drying, and noncovalent complex formation with galactomannosides have been investigated with in vitro cell culture models, in vivo animal models, and humans. In the current study, we extensively reviewed clinical trials on various generations of curcumin formulations and their safety and efficacy in the treatment of many diseases. We also summarized the dose, duration, and mechanism of action of these formulations. We have also critically reviewed the advantages and limitations of each of these formulations compared to various placebo and/or available standard care therapies for these ailments. The highlighted integrative concept embodied in the development of next-generation formulations helps to minimize bioavailability and safety issues with least or no adverse side effects and the provisional new dimensions presented in this direction may add value in the prevention and cure of complex chronic diseases.

Microbial Transformation of Curcumin and Synergistic Investigation of Its Derivatives with Piperine

“…In the literature, studies have shown that the combination of curcumin and piperine is not always synergistic or does not always validate the enhancment of curcumin's bioavailability. [36,37] We aimed to evaluate in vitro antibacterial effects of combinations. When we evaluated against the selected bacterial strains, no synergistic effect was observed between curcumin and piperine.…”

“…However, this effect can vary depending on the organism‘s species and condition. In the literature, studies have shown that the combination of curcumin and piperine is not always synergistic or does not always validate the enhancment of curcumin's bioavailability [36,37] …”

Apoptosis antagonizing transcription factor‐mediated liver damage and inflammation to cancer: Therapeutic intervention by curcumin in experimental metabolic dysfunction associated steatohepatitis‐hepatocellular carcinoma

“…However, owing to its therapeutic potential, recent advancements in the development of myriad strategies have evolved. Coadministration of piperine, liposomal formulations, nanotechnology‐based delivery systems, development of curcumin‐phospholipid complexes (phytosomes), and hydrogel delivery systems (Hegde et al, 2023). These innovative approaches exhibit a promising role in augmenting the bioavailability of curcumin.…”

The efficacy of medicinal plant preparations in the alleviation of radiodermatitis in patients with breast cancer: A systematic review of clinical trials

“…Curcumin is a constituent of turmeric that is endowed with multiple pharmacological actions, some of which are of clinical relevance (Hassanzadeh et al, 2020; Hegde et al, 2023; Heidari et al, 2022; Kumar et al, 2021; Mohajeri & Sahebkar, 2018; Mokhtari‐Zaer et al, 2018; Momtazi‐Borojeni et al, 2018; Parsamanesh et al, 2018; Soltani et al, 2021). Curcumin has been reported to be efficacious in the treatment of many skin conditions including eczema, acne, wounds, wrinkles, and scabies (Aggarwal et al, 2007; Bhagavathula et al, 2009; Gopinath et al, 2004; Jagetia & Rajanikant, 2004; Panahi et al, 2019; Phan et al, 2006).…”