Development and Evaluation of Proniosome-Encapsulated Curcumin for Transdermal Administration

Purpose: To develop a proniosomal carrier system of curcumin for transdermal delivery. Methods: Proniosomes of curcumin were prepared by encapsulation of the drug in a mixture of Span 80, cholesterol and diethyl ether by ether injection method, and then investigated as a transdermal drug delivery system (TDDS). The formulated systems were characterized for size, drug entrapment, angle of repose, hydration rate and vesicular stability under various storage conditions. In vitro release studies were performed using albino rat skin. Results: The method used for preparing proniosome resulted in an encapsulation yield of 82.3 – 86.8%. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed that the surface of the particles was smooth. Stability data following storage under different conditions showed that the drug content of the proniosomes varied from 99.5% under refrigerated condition to 99.2 and 93% at room and elevated temperatures, respectively. One of the formulations (PG1) showed prolonged in vitro drug release of 61.8% over a period of 24 h. Conclusion: It is evident from this study that proniosomes are very stable and promising prolongeddelivery system for curcumin.