Production of curcumin formulations by supercritical fluid-assisted coating and coprecipitation processes

Lessa Matos, Ravenna ORCID: 0000-0002-4896-2810 (2020). Production of curcumin formulations by supercritical fluid-assisted coating and coprecipitation processes. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

Particle size reduction and solid dispersions are common strategies used to improve the solubility of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The Supercritical Antisolvent (SAS) process has been proved to be advantageous over conventional micronization techniques however, due to the high surface energy of fine particles, handling and post-processing of the micronized material remains an issue. The combination of the SAS process with fluidized bed is an alternative to allow simultaneous precipitation of the API and coating onto the surface of larger particles, so the release and flow properties of the formulation can be improved in a single step. The aim of this project is to extend the understanding and applicability of SAS in conjunction with fluidized bed and produce formulations of curcumin, a model compound with poor water solubility. SAS-FB was initially used to precipitate curcumin onto lactose particles (125 µm), producing a free-flowing powder. As the size reduction of curcumin achieved was insufficient to significantly enhance its solubility, curcumin was coprecipitated with a hydrophilic polymer, poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP). Finally, simultaneous coprecipitation and coating onto several particles (MCC, 175 µm; corn starch, 15 µm and lactose, < 5 µm) was performed for combined flow and dissolution enhancement.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):