Development, Optimization, and Clinical Evaluation of Curcumin-Loaded Topical Formulations for the Management of Osteoarthritis Pain: A Comprehensive Review

Osteoarthritis (OA) represents a prevalent degenerative joint disorder characterized by progressive cartilage degradation, synovial inflammation, and chronic pain. While oral Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) remain the first line of pharmacotherapy, their systemic adverse effects necessitate the exploration of safer alternatives. Curcumin, a hydrophobic polyphenol derived from Curcuma longa, exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties by modulating the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. However, its poor bioavailability and low skin permeability limit its clinical utility. This article reviews the physicochemical properties of curcumin, discusses advanced pharmaceutical strategies—including nanoemulsions, liposomes, and microemulsion-based gels—to enhance its transdermal delivery, and evaluates clinical evidence from the last five years regarding its efficacy in mitigating OA pain. The findings suggest that novel topical delivery systems significantly improve the therapeutic index of curcumin, offering a viable alternative to conventional NSAIDs.

کلیدواژه ها:

Curcumin ، Osteoarthritis ، Topical Delivery ، Nanoemulsion ، Transdermal ، Pain Management ، Anti-inflammatory