Novel Chitosan Beeswax Matrix for Gastro-Retentive Delivery of Curcumin: A Promising Adjuvant Therapy for Helicobacter Infection

Purpose

The main purpose of this study is to introduce a new adjuvant treatment for H. pylori that aims to enhance therapy outcomes. The research question is how to create a controlled-release gastro-retentive floating system using a combination of chitosan (CS) and beeswax (BW) and to evaluate the release behavior of curcumin as an active ingredient.

Methods

In this study, a new formula combining CS and BW was developed through a hot melting process to create a controlled-release gastro-retentive floating system. Response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to determine the optimal conditions and concentrations of CS and BW to produce the desired floating system. Parameters such as mixing time, processing melting temperature, and concentration of BW were evaluated.

Results

The study found that the optimal parameters for the CS/BW formulation were determined as follows: a mixing time of 3 min, a processing melting temperature of 92.2 °C, and a BW concentration of 13.3% (w/w). Curcumin was incorporated into the optimal tablet, and its release behavior was evaluated. The results showed a full floating behavior of the tablet and a zero-order release behavior in acidic conditions.

Conclusions

The study successfully introduced a new adjuvant treatment for H. pylori that utilizes a controlled-release gastro-retentive floating system. The combination of CS and BW, along with the incorporation of curcumin, showed promising results in terms of floating behavior and release kinetics. This new treatment approach has the potential to enhance therapy outcomes for H. pylori infections.