Colloidal systems composed of poloxamer 407, different acrylic acid derivatives and curcuminoids: Optimization of preparation method, type of bioadhesive polymer and storage conditions

Studies were performed to investigate the physicochemical properties of polymeric systems containing poloxamer 407 and acrylic acid derivatives (Carbopol 974P® or polycarbophil) for delivery of curcuminoids. To optimise the preparation method, the active and passive incorporation methodologies were investigated and the storage temperatures (5 and 25 °C) were evaluated by spectroscopic analysis. Colloidal systems containing Carbopol 974P® promoted stronger interactions and better structuring between curcumin and the polymeric micelles and higher temperatures showed higher anisotropy values. Kinetic studies showed that curcumin was quickly incorporated in the polymeric micelles. Location and storage studies showed that curcumin was in a more internalised portion of hydrophobic core of poloxamer 407 micelles and could be stable even after three months of preparation, when the formulations were composed of Carbopol 974P® and stored at 25 °C. In this sense, the active incorporation was chosen as the optimised method for preparation of curcuminoids-formulations for future pharmaceutical applications. [Display omitted] •Polymer blends for curcuminoids delivery were investigated.•Curcumin was quickly included in the micelles due to the affinity of poloxamer 407.•Systems with Carbopol 974P® (25 °C) showed drug in an inner portion of poloxamer 407.•Curcumin location promotes protection from degradation and a probable drug release control.•Active incorporation was chosen the optimised method for preparation of formulations.