Burn injuries present significant challenges in wound care, often leading to complications such as infections, pus accumulation, and delayed healing. To address these issues, this study focused on developing and evaluating a curcumin-loaded film-forming gel designed to create a durable protective barrier over burn wounds, adhere securely to the skin, and gradually release therapeutic agents. The gel was formulated using varying concentrations of HPMC grades such as K100LV and K100M and Eudragit RL 100, with aloe vera mucilage and PEG 400 added to enhance bioadhesion and penetration. Thin Layer Chromatography confirmed curcumin's purity, while anti-inflammatory studies revealed its dose-dependent inhibition in protein denaturation assay, demonstrating anti-inflammatory potential. Ten batches of curcumin-loaded film-forming gels were prepared, optimized, and assessed for physical characteristics, pH, spreadability, drying time, film-forming capability, and folding endurance. Batch J, containing 1.25% HPMC K100M and 1.5% Eudragit RL100, was identified as the optimal formulation, exhibiting a rapid drying time of 2 minutes and 30 seconds, good spreadability, excellent film-forming properties, and depicted comfortable movement of the applied area. The film-forming gel produced a durable and flexible film, providing a protective barrier over the wound and promoting the healing process. The gradual release of curcumin, coupled with its anti-inflammatory effects, is expected to accelerate wound healing, reduce the risk of infection, and improve patient outcomes. This innovative film-forming gel represents a promising solution for burn wound care, effectively combining the therapeutic benefits of curcumin with advanced formulation techniques.

Dr. Aparna D. Palshetkar, Adurkar T., Singh S., Salian N., Patil M., R. Kshitija

Burns, Anti-inflammatory, Curcumin, Eudragit RL100