Composition for dual anti-inflammatory and antiviral action against COVID-19 and related pathogens

Abstract

A pharmaceutical composition with dual anti-inflammatory and antiviral activity against COVID-19 and related respiratory pathogens, the composition comprising the following: (a) Curcumin in an amount of 1.5 to 5.0% by weight, which acts as a primary anti-inflammatory agent, suppressing cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression and interleukin-6 (IL-6) signaling; b) Quercetin in an amount of 2.0 to 6.0 wt%, which acts as an antiviral flavonoid and is able to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 proteases (3CLpro and PLpro) and the penetration of the virus; (c) Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) in an amount of 0.5 to 2.0 wt%, with an average particle size between 20 and 40 nm, which facilitate the destruction of viral envelope proteins and increase cellular zinc uptake; d) Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in an amount of 1.0 to 4.0 wt.%, which acts as an antioxidant to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced during viral infections and inflammatory reactions; (e) Glycyrrhizin, extracted from licorice glabra, in an amount of 1.0 to 3.0% by weight, acts as an immunomodulator, stabilizes cytokine levels and reduces pneumonia; and (f) a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier medium consisting of liposomal, polymeric or PEG-based excipients in an amount of 80 to 90 wt.%, which ensures sustained release and improved bioavailability of the active substances.

Description

Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to pharmaceutical and biochemical compositions with dual anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, specifically directed against COVID-19 and related viral pathogens that cause respiratory syndromes. Background of the invention

[0002] The global outbreak of COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has highlighted the urgent need for dual-action therapies that can both inhibit viral replication and mitigate excessive inflammatory responses such as cytokine storms. Conventional antiviral drugs like remdesivir and molnupiravir primarily inhibit viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase but have only limited effects on inflammatory cascades. Corticosteroids such as dexamethasone and prednisone, while reducing inflammation, carry the risk of immunosuppression and delayed viral clearance.

[0003] Existing herbal preparations have shown partial antiviral or anti-inflammatory activity, but their pharmacodynamic effects are either nonspecific or limited by low solubility, instability, and reduced bioavailability. Synthetic analogs of flavonoids and alkaloids have been tested in combination therapies, but without precise control of molecular synergy, therapeutic efficacy remains inconsistent. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems show promise but often suffer from deficiencies in uniform distribution and precise dosing, resulting in nonlinear pharmacokinetics.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a composition that integrates antiviral and anti-inflammatory mechanisms through synergistic molecular interactions while ensuring physicochemical stability and high bioavailability. Furthermore, an automated or semi-automated device capable of mixing, encapsulating, and delivering this composition in optimized therapeutic doses would address challenges in manufacturing and clinical application, particularly for rapid treatment during viral outbreaks.

[0005] The global health crisis triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed serious shortcomings in the existing therapeutic landscape for viral infections, which simultaneously provoke excessive inflammatory responses. COVID-19, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), exhibits a complex pathology encompassing both viral replication and dysregulated immune activation, leading to cytokine storms, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and multi-organ failure. Conventional antiviral and anti-inflammatory therapies developed prior to the pandemic were largely conceived as independent pharmacological categories, targeting either viral inhibition or inflammation suppression.This compartmentalized approach resulted in limited therapeutic efficacy, particularly in diseases such as COVID-19, where viral replication and inflammation are closely linked through shared molecular signaling pathways.

[0006] The lack of integrated drug-applicator systems in the current pharmaceutical field highlights the gap that this invention seeks to fill. By combining synergistically active natural substances with biocompatible metallic nanoparticles and a programmable device for manufacturing, encapsulation, and delivery, the present invention addresses the two challenges of efficacy and stability. This integrated approach enables a new therapeutic paradigm in which antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects are achieved simultaneously through a scientifically optimized, nanostructured composition and an intelligent delivery device—thus overcoming the limitations that have long restricted conventional and existing therapies. Summary of the invention

[0007] The invention relates to a dual-functional composition consisting of a combination of (a) curcumin or its analogues (1-5 wt%), (b) quercetin (2-6 wt%), (c) zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) with a particle size of 20-40 nm (0.5-2 wt%), (d) ascorbic acid (1-4 wt%), (e) glycyrrhizin (1-3 wt%), and (f) a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier medium such as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), PEG-400, or a lecithin-based liposomal matrix, comprising 80-90% of the total composition. The combination synergistically inhibits viral replication by blocking the binding of the spike protein to the ACE2 receptor and simultaneously suppresses NF-κB- and IL-6-mediated inflammatory pathways.

[0008] In one embodiment, the composition is encapsulated in polymeric or liposomal microspheres for controlled release. In another embodiment, it is integrated into a thermally stable aerosol solution intended for pulmonary administration by means of a nebulizer-integrated device described herein. The device comprises a nanoparticle homogenization unit, a microencapsulation chamber, and an application nozzle capable of generating a micronized mist for deep alveolar delivery.

[0009] The main objective of the present invention is to provide a pharmaceutical composition with dual anti-inflammatory and antiviral activity, specifically targeting COVID-19 and related respiratory pathogens such as SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and influenza viruses. The invention aims to overcome the limitations of existing antiviral agents, which merely inhibit viral replication and neglect the accompanying inflammatory response. Conversely, it seeks to avoid the drawbacks of conventional anti-inflammatory drugs, which suppress the immune system and do not inhibit viral replication. The composition is designed to act synergistically on both levels by combining plant-based bioactive molecules and biocompatible metallic nanoparticles in a scientifically optimized carrier matrix to achieve simultaneous suppression of viral activity and modulation of the host's inflammatory processes.

[0010] A further objective of the invention is to provide a composition with specific ratios of natural polyphenols and metal oxide nanoparticles that together enhance the antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects while ensuring biocompatibility and stability. The invention aims to exploit the molecular synergy between curcumin, quercetin, zinc oxide nanoparticles, glycyrrhizin, and ascorbic acid to ensure that each component complements the pharmacological function of the others. This enables the composition to inhibit viral entry by blocking the spike protein ACE2 receptor, suppress the activity of viral proteases, and simultaneously downregulate the NF-κB and IL-6 signaling pathways responsible for inflammatory damage in lung tissue.

[0011] A further objective of the invention is to provide a composition with improved physicochemical stability, increased solubility, and higher bioavailability compared to conventional plant-based or nanoparticle-based formulations. The carrier medium, consisting of liposomal or polymeric matrices, is formulated to encapsulate the active ingredients, protect them from oxidative degradation, and enable sustained release over an extended period. The aim is to create a system in which the therapeutic agents remain stable under variable temperature and pH conditions and maintain their structural integrity during storage, transport, and administration.

[0012] The invention aims to provide a biocompatible and safe therapeutic alternative with minimal cytotoxicity and no side effects such as immunosuppression, oxidative stress, or electrolyte imbalances. The composition is carefully designed to ensure an optimal concentration of zinc oxide nanoparticles and polyphenolic compounds, thereby guaranteeing high antiviral efficacy without exceeding toxicity thresholds. This balanced ratio makes the formulation suitable for long-term use and adaptable to various patient groups, including vulnerable populations such as the elderly or immunocompromised individuals.

[0013] A further objective of the invention is to provide a machine or device for the controlled production, encapsulation, and administration of the composition in various dosage forms such as aerosols, capsules, or suspensions. The device is designed to enable automated mixing, homogenization, and encapsulation under controlled environmental conditions, thus ensuring uniform particle distribution and a consistent therapeutic effect. Through the integration of temperature-controlled mixing chambers, ultrasonic dispersion units, and microfluidic encapsulation channels, the device ensures a precise nanoparticle suspension and consistent encapsulation of bioactive compounds. The aim here is not only to standardize the manufacturing process but also to improve the reproducibility and scalability of the formulation in industrial production.

[0014] The invention further aims to provide an intelligent, device-integrated delivery system that enables the application of the composition via optimized routes such as inhalation or oral administration. In its aerosolized form, the composition can be transformed into ultrafine mist particles with a mean aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) suitable for deep alveolar delivery. This ensures a rapid and localized therapeutic effect in the respiratory tract, where SARS-CoV-2 replication predominantly occurs. The goal is to reduce the systemic drug load while simultaneously maximizing the targeted concentration, thereby minimizing side effects and increasing the therapeutic index.

[0015] A further objective of the invention is the development of a device structure that allows for flexible adaptation to various pharmaceutical applications. The device can be configured for both aerosol production for respiratory therapy and capsule formulation via lyophilization and encapsulation. This versatile adaptability ensures the system's use in both clinical settings and large-scale pharmaceutical production, thus enabling faster deployment in pandemic situations. The device's modular design also allows for easy integration into quality control systems capable of real-time monitoring of parameters such as particle size, viscosity, encapsulation efficiency, and thermal stability.

[0016] A further objective of the invention is to provide a composition that can be optimized for different viral strains or inflammatory states by adjusting the ratio of bioactive components and carrier materials. This adaptability enables dynamic formulation development in response to changing viral mutations or varying degrees of inflammation. For example, the ratio of zinc oxide nanoparticles to quercetin can be increased for improved antiviral activity, while the concentrations of curcumin and glycyrrhizin can be adjusted to modulate the anti-inflammatory effect. This adaptability makes the composition versatile – not only against COVID-19, but also against future viral pathogens with similar infection mechanisms.

[0017] Furthermore, the invention aims to provide a composition that can be used as a preventive or prophylactic formulation in at-risk groups and acts as a protective therapeutic agent by strengthening the host's immune response without overstimulating it. By modulating cytokine levels and maintaining oxidative balance, the formulation contributes to immune homeostasis and resistance to viral infections. This preventive application would be particularly advantageous for healthcare professionals and individuals in densely populated areas or environments with high transmission rates. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE IMAGES

[0018] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be better understood if the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which identical symbols represent identical parts: Fig. Figure 1 shows a table illustrating the synergistic antiviral efficacy of the combined formulation; and Fig. Figure 2 shows a table for improving the anti-inflammatory effect.

[0019] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that the elements in the drawings are simplified and not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the flowcharts illustrate the process by highlighting the main steps to facilitate understanding of this disclosure. With regard to the construction of the device, one or more components may be represented in the drawings by conventional symbols. The drawings may show only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of this disclosure, so as not to clutter the drawings with details that are already apparent to those skilled in the art from the description contained herein. Detailed description of the invention

[0020] To facilitate understanding of the principles of the invention, reference is made below to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings, which is described using specific terms. It is understood, however, that this does not limit the scope of protection of the invention. Rather, modifications and further developments of the illustrated system, as well as further applications of the inventive principles depicted therein, are conceivable, insofar as they would typically occur to a person skilled in the art in the field of the invention.

[0021] It will be clear to those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not to be understood as a limitation thereof.

[0022] References to “an aspect”, “another aspect”, or similar phrases in this description mean that a particular feature, structure, or property described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, phrases such as “in one embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, and similar expressions in this description may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0023] The terms "includes," "comprehensive," or similar expressions denote non-exclusive inclusion. Thus, a procedure or method containing a list of steps does not only include those steps but may also include further steps not explicitly listed or inherent in the procedure or method. Likewise, the statement "includes..." for one or more devices, subsystems, elements, structures, or components, without further limitations, does not preclude the existence of other devices, subsystems, elements, structures, or components.

[0024] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings generally known to those skilled in the art in the field to which this invention belongs. The systems, methods, and examples described herein serve only for illustration and are not to be understood as limiting.

[0025] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition with dual anti-inflammatory and antiviral activity against COVID-19 and related respiratory pathogens, wherein the composition comprises the following: (a) Curcumin in an amount of 1.5 to 5.0% by weight, which acts as a primary anti-inflammatory agent, suppressing cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression and interleukin-6 (IL-6) signaling; b) Quercetin in an amount of 2.0 to 6.0 wt%, which acts as an antiviral flavonoid and is able to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 proteases (3CLpro and PLpro) and the penetration of the virus; (c) Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) in an amount of 0.5 to 2.0 wt%, with an average particle size between 20 and 40 nm, which facilitate the destruction of viral envelope proteins and increase cellular zinc uptake; d) Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in an amount of 1.0 to 4.0 wt.%, which acts as an antioxidant to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced during viral infections and inflammatory reactions; (e) Glycyrrhizin, extracted from licorice glabra, in an amount of 1.0 to 3.0% by weight, acts as an immunomodulator, stabilizes cytokine levels and reduces pneumonia; and (f) a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier medium consisting of liposomal, polymeric or PEG-based excipients in an amount of 80 to 90% by weight, which ensures sustained release and improved bioavailability of the active substances.

[0027] In one embodiment, the liposomal carrier medium comprises lecithin (30-40 wt% of the carrier), cholesterol (5-10 wt% of the carrier), and phosphatidylcholine (50-60 wt% of the carrier), which form bilayer vesicles encapsulating the active ingredients. The vesicles have an average size of 100-300 nm to ensure efficient absorption through the mucous membranes and alveoli.

[0028] In one embodiment, the curcumin content is exactly 3.0 wt%, the quercetin content 4.0 wt%, the zinc oxide nanoparticle content 1.0 wt%, the ascorbic acid content 2.0 wt%, and the glycyrrhizin content 2.0 wt%, with the remaining 88.0 wt% consisting of the pharmaceutically acceptable carrier medium. This achieves an optimized synergistic balance for a dual antiviral and anti-inflammatory effect.

[0029] In one embodiment, the zinc oxide nanoparticles are surface-functionalized with 0.1-0.3 wt% citric acid or 0.05-0.2 wt% chitosan, based on the total weight of the nanoparticles, to improve dispersion stability, reduce aggregation and increase biocompatibility without affecting the release kinetics of the zinc ions.

[0030] In one embodiment, the liposomal carrier system is formed in an aqueous dispersion medium containing deionized water (60-70 wt% of the carrier) and glycerol (1-5 wt% of the carrier), thereby ensuring high encapsulation efficiency (>90%) and protection of curcumin and quercetin from oxidative degradation.

[0031] In one embodiment, the ratio of curcumin: quercetin: zinc oxide nanoparticles is maintained between 1.5:2.0:0.5 and 3.0:4.0:1.0 (weight fractions), optimized to achieve synergistic virus inhibition of over 90% in pseudovirus neutralization tests without causing cytotoxic effects.

[0032] In one embodiment, ascorbic acid and glycyrrhizin are present in a combined concentration of 3.0-6.0 wt% and act synergistically to regulate the redox balance and mitigate excessive inflammatory reactions caused by viral infections, while the nanoparticles ensure a controlled release of zinc ions for prolonged antiviral protection.

[0033] In one embodiment, the pharmaceutically acceptable carrier medium comprises a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) base in the range of 5-10 wt%, a polyethylene glycol (PEG-400) fraction in the range of 2-4 wt% and a lecithin-based emulsifier in the range of 1-2 wt%, thereby improving the solubility and controlled diffusion kinetics of hydrophobic phytoconstituents.

[0034] In one embodiment, the proportion of zinc oxide nanoparticles is 1.2 wt%. Under physiological buffer conditions, a sustained zinc ion release of 0.4–0.8 µg / ml per hour is ensured, thereby maintaining antiviral concentration levels without cytotoxic accumulation in the host cells.

[0035] In one embodiment, curcumin and quercetin are jointly encapsulated in the liposomal bilayer in a molar ratio of 1:1.3, resulting in increased structural stability and enhanced intracellular uptake. The encapsulation efficiency is at least 92% for curcumin and 88% for quercetin.

[0036] In one embodiment, the composition is optionally supplemented with black pepper extract (piperine) at a concentration of 0.1-0.5 wt%, which acts as a bioavailability enhancer by inhibiting the hepatic and intestinal glucuronidation of curcumin and quercetin, thus extending the plasma half-life to up to 6 hours after administration.

[0037] In one embodiment, the formulation has a pH value in the range of 6.5-7.5, a viscosity between 200 and 500 centipoise and a zeta potential of -25 to -40 mV, indicating a colloidal stability suitable for oral and aerosolized administration.

[0038] In one embodiment, the antioxidant capacity, measured by the DPPH radical scavenger test, exceeds an inhibition of 85% at 100 µg / ml, and the antiviral activity, measured by the pseudovirus neutralization test, shows an inhibition of over 90% at the same concentration.

[0039] In one embodiment, all components are pharmaceutically pure and comply with pharmacopoeial standards, and the formulation shows no cytotoxicity below 200 µg / ml and maintains cell viability above 95% in MTT tests with Vero E6 cells.

[0040] In one embodiment, the components are homogenized under controlled conditions, including a mixing speed of 800-1200 rpm, a temperature range of 35-45 °C and an ultrasonic dispersion frequency between 20 and 40 kHz, thereby ensuring uniformity in the nanometer range and a reproducible particle size distribution.

[0041] In one embodiment, the ratio of hydrophilic to hydrophobic carrier phase is maintained between 70:30 and 80:20, thereby ensuring optimal diffusion of curcumin and quercetin through biological membranes and improved retention in the lung epithelial tissue after inhalation.

[0042] In one embodiment, the formulation achieves a controlled release of 70-80% of its active ingredients over 12 hours, thereby maintaining a sustained therapeutic level for prolonged antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects and minimizing the need for frequent dosing.

[0043] In one embodiment, the liposomal matrix is ​​supplemented with 0.05-0.2 wt% tocopherol (vitamin E) as a natural stabilizer to prevent lipid peroxidation and improve oxidative stability during long-term storage.

[0044] In one embodiment, the pharmaceutical formulation is suitable for conversion into various dosage forms, including aerosol mist (1-3 µm MMAD), oral capsules or topical gels, with chemical integrity being maintained across all formats due to the stability of the liposomal encapsulation.

[0045] In one embodiment, the combination comprises curcumin (3.0 wt%), quercetin (4.0 wt%), zinc oxide nanoparticles (1.0 wt%), ascorbic acid (2.0 wt%), and glycyrrhizin (2.0 wt%) dispersed in a lecithin-based carrier (88.0 wt%). This combination forms an optimized synergistic formulation that, in comparative in vitro tests, achieves viral inhibition of over 90% and a reduction of inflammatory markers by 80%.

[0046] Fig. Figure 1 shows a table illustrating the synergistic antiviral efficacy of the combined formulation. While individual components such as curcumin, quercetin, zinc oxide nanoparticles, and glycyrrhizin each exhibit moderate inhibition (20–55%), the integrated composition demonstrates a significantly increased antiviral inhibition of over 90%. This demonstrates the molecular synergy resulting from optimized ratios and encapsulation in nanocarriers.

[0047] Fig.Figure 2 shows a table illustrating the improvement in anti-inflammatory effects. Compared to untreated controls, the formulation demonstrates a significant reduction in IL-6 and TNF-α markers, indicating strong suppression of cytokine storm signaling pathways. The lipid-encapsulated system allows for deeper epithelial penetration and sustained pharmacological activity, thereby improving ROS neutralization and reducing inflammation.

[0048] The present invention relates to a composition with dual antiviral and anti-inflammatory activity against COVID-19 and related respiratory viruses. The formulation combines bioactive natural substances—curcumin, quercetin, glycyrrhizin, and ascorbic acid—with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) embedded in a liposomal or polymeric carrier system. This achieves simultaneous inhibition of viral replication and modulation of inflammatory processes. The structural and biochemical optimization of the composition is achieved by means of a formulation process that defines the quantitative ratios, the parameters for nanoparticle stabilization, the encapsulation efficiency, and the controlled release kinetics to ensure a consistent therapeutic effect. This process forms the basis for the precise assembly and molecular organization of the composition, thus enabling reproducible pharmacological effects.

[0049] Pharmacodynamic evaluation of the composition reveals a synergistic therapeutic effect, with antiviral efficacy exceeding the sum of individual effects. In vitro tests demonstrate an inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus entry into ACE2-expressing Vero E6 cells by over 90%, while IL-6 and TNF-α expression levels are reduced by more than 80%. The observed effects are consistent with the predictions of the formulation model, thus confirming the precision and reliability of the composition.

[0050] The composition according to the present invention is based on synergistic pharmacological targeting. Curcumin acts as a primary anti-inflammatory agent, inhibiting the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and interleukin-6 signaling pathways and thus reducing cytokine-induced lung damage. Quercetin acts as a broad-spectrum antiviral flavonoid, inhibiting the viral proteases 3CLpro and PLpro. Zinc oxide nanoparticles, due to their high surface reactivity and ion release, disrupt the integrity of the viral envelope and impair RNA synthesis, thereby enhancing antiviral efficacy. The addition of ascorbic acid provides antioxidant protection and reduces cell damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS), while glycyrrhizin acts as an immunomodulator and stabilizes the inflammatory microenvironment.

[0051] The pharmaceutically acceptable carrier system ensures solubility and delayed release. In a preferred formulation, 3% curcumin, 4% quercetin, 1% zinc oxide nanoparticles, 2% ascorbic acid, and 2% glycyrrhizin are dispersed in an 88% liposome matrix of lecithin, cholesterol, and phosphatidylcholine. The lipid bilayer encapsulation enhances membrane permeability, thus enabling efficient mucosal absorption. The nanoparticles are pretreated with citric acid for surface stabilization to prevent aggregation during formulation.

[0052] The invention comprises the integration of bioactive polyphenols such as curcumin and quercetin, metal oxide nanoparticles such as zinc oxide, and excipients such as ascorbic acid and glycyrrhizin into a unified composition with dual pharmacological activity. Furthermore, the invention addresses the challenges of formulating hydrophobic natural products by embedding them in amphiphilic lipid matrices or polymeric supports to improve solubility, stability, and controlled pharmacokinetic release.

[0053] From a therapeutic perspective, the invention is positioned at the interface of antiviral pharmacology and inflammation control. It targets both the viral replication cycle and the hyperinflammatory cytokine storm associated with severe viral infections. The invention presents a scientific framework for achieving molecular synergies between natural bioactive substances and inorganic nanoparticles through precisely controlled quantitative ratios and nanoscale formulations. The technical field also encompasses the pharmaceutical development of flexible dosage forms, including oral capsules, suspensions, and aerosol systems, which ensure a targeted and efficient therapeutic effect in the lungs, where viral infections predominantly manifest.

[0054] The technical field of this invention thus lies at the interface of nanomedicine, pharmacognosy, pharmaceutical formulation development and antiviral drug development with the aim of providing a next-generation therapeutic composition that combines bioactive natural products and nanotechnology to achieve superior antiviral and anti-inflammatory efficacy against COVID-19 and similar viral diseases.

[0055] The drawings and the preceding description illustrate embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that one or more of the described elements can be combined to form a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements can be divided into several functional elements. Elements of one embodiment can be added to another. For example, the process flows described here can be modified and are not limited to the manner described herein. Furthermore, the actions of a flowchart need not be performed in the sequence shown; nor do all actions necessarily need to be carried out. Actions that do not depend on other actions can be performed in parallel with the other actions. The scope of protection of the embodiments is in no way limited by these specific examples. Numerous variations, whether explicitly stated in the description or not, such as...Differences in structure, dimensions, and materials are possible. The scope of protection of the embodiments is at least as comprehensive as described by the following claims.

[0056] The advantages, other benefits, and problem solutions have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, the advantages, benefits, problem solutions, and any components that can effect or enhance an advantage, benefit, or solution are not to be construed as critical, necessary, or essential features or components of the claims.

Claims

[1] A pharmaceutical composition with dual anti-inflammatory and antiviral activity against COVID-19 and related respiratory pathogens, the composition comprising: (a) Curcumin in an amount of 1.5 to 5.0% by weight, which acts as a primary anti-inflammatory agent, suppressing cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression and interleukin-6 (IL-6) signaling; b) Quercetin in an amount of 2.0 to 6.0 wt%, which acts as an antiviral flavonoid and is able to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 proteases (3CLpro and PLpro) and the penetration of the virus; (c) Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) in an amount of 0.5 to 2.0 wt%, with an average particle size between 20 and 40 nm, which facilitate the destruction of viral envelope proteins and increase cellular zinc uptake; d) Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in an amount of 1.0 to 4.0 wt.%, which acts as an antioxidant to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced during viral infections and inflammatory reactions; (e) Glycyrrhizin, extracted from licorice glabra, in an amount of 1.0 to 3.0% by weight, acts as an immunomodulator, stabilizes cytokine levels and reduces pneumonia; and (f) a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier medium consisting of liposomal, polymeric or PEG-based excipients in an amount of 80 to 90 wt.%, which ensures sustained release and improved bioavailability of the active substances. [2] Composition according to claim 1, wherein the liposomal carrier medium comprises lecithin (30-40 wt% of the carrier), cholesterol (5-10 wt% of the carrier) and phosphatidylcholine (50-60 wt% of the carrier) forming bilayer vesicles encapsulating the active ingredients, with an average vesicle size of 100-300 nm to ensure efficient mucosal and alveolar absorption. [3] Composition according to claim 1, wherein the curcumin content is exactly 3.0 wt.%, the quercetin content is 4.0 wt.%, the zinc oxide nanoparticle content is 1.0 wt.%, the ascorbic acid content is 2.0 wt.% and the glycyrrhizin content is 2.0 wt.%, wherein the remaining 88.0 wt.% consists of the pharmaceutically acceptable carrier medium. [4] Composition according to claim 1, wherein the zinc oxide nanoparticles are surface-functionalized with 0.1-0.3 wt% citric acid or 0.05-0.2 wt% chitosan, based on the total weight of the nanoparticles, to improve dispersion stability, reduce aggregation and increase biocompatibility without affecting the release kinetics of the zinc ions. [5] Composition according to claim 1, wherein the ratio of curcumin: quercetin: zinc oxide nanoparticles is between 1.5: 2.0: 0.5 and 3.0: 4.0: 1.0 (weight fractions), optimized to achieve synergistic virus inhibition of over 90% in pseudovirus neutralization tests without cytotoxic effects. [6] Composition according to claim 1, wherein the ascorbic acid and glycyrrhizin are present in a combined concentration of 3.0-6.0 wt% and act synergistically to regulate the redox balance and mitigate hyperinflammatory reactions caused by viral infections, while the nanoparticles ensure a controlled release of zinc ions for prolonged antiviral protection. [7] Composition according to claim 1, wherein the pharmaceutically acceptable carrier medium comprises a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) base in an amount of 5-10 wt.%, a polyethylene glycol (PEG-400) fraction in an amount of 2-4 wt.% and a lecithin-based emulsifier in an amount of 1-2 wt.%.