Development of curcumin floating beads with low density materials and solubilizers

Curcumin floating beads with low density materials including polypropylene foam powder, oils and various solubilizers were developed to prolong gastroretention and improve typically insufficient curcumin release, thus providing possible utilization for peptic ulcer treatment. They were prepared by ionotropic gelation and characterized for physical properties, floating properties and drug release. The results revealed that immediately floating beads with prolonged floatation could be successfully prepared using 1% w/w of foam powder. Floating properties and curcumin release were further improved by adding low density oils and solubilizers. Using G-rich alginate as a bead forming polymer provided slower curcumin release than using M-rich alginate. Freeze-drying yielded floating beads with a lower density and more highly porous structure, leading to higher curcumin release compared to oven-drying. The optimum formulation consisted of 1% w/w foam powder, 10% w/w peppermint oil, 10% w/w Cremophor RH40 and 10% w/w ethanol. This study demonstrated robust alginate floating systems with low density materials and solubilizers are promising carriers for stomach-targeted delivery of curcumin.