TRANSDERMAL DELIVERY OF CURCUMIN IN BREAST CANCER: ADVANCES, CHALLENGES, AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

Traditional medicine continues to play a significant role in primary healthcare systems worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. In several phytotherapy-based medical practices, native medicinal plant/herbal extracts are widely used to treat various disorders and diseases. Their usage is rapidly developing due to its beneficial effects and assumed with less toxic side effects. Curcuma longa is one such important medicinal plant with high medicinal values. Its usage is common in ethno-traditional medicine and in all other medical practices. It is a rich source of various bioactive compounds. Curcumin is the primary ingredient and is widely used in multiple therapeutic applications that include cancer. Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Many researchers are looking for appropriate anti-cancer agents for treating Breast cancer. Curcumin has gained considerable attention as a potential therapeutic agent in breast cancer. Transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDS) act through topical skin and deliver drugs into blood circulation through the skin. TDDS has many advantages when compared to conventional dosage forms that may increase patient compliance by lower dose frequency, with minimal side effects, and non-invasive delivery of drugs. Several drugs are employed through the transdermal route. However, the present review highlights the transdermal administration of Curcumin in breast cancer with major challenges, and future perspectives.