Invited Oration Pharma-nature Fusion: Integrated Approaches for Effective Pain Control and Relief

Abstract

Pain management poses a significant healthcare challenge, prompting exploration into innovative strategies. Our work embodies a fusion of pharmaceutical and natural approaches to enhance pain relief using curcumin, a natural polyphenolic compound. Through synergistic drug combinations (curcumin-metformin and curcumin-piperine), nanoformulations (curcumin-metformin-coloaded chitosan/alginate nanoparticles), and prodrug development (curcumin diglutaric acid, curcumin diethyl diglutarate, and curcumin diethyl γ-aminobutyrate), we aimed to fortify curcumin's efficacy against diverse pain types. Findings demonstrated enhanced analgesic effects, improved pharmacokinetic profiles, and promising safety profiles, laying the foundation for advanced pain management solutions integrating pharmaceutical and natural elements.