Co-delivery of minoxidil and finasteride via ionic liquid and cyclodextrin-assisted in situ thermosensitive hydrogel for synergistic treatment of androgenic alopecia

The study developed a novel in situ thermosensitive hydrogel combining ionic liquid, cyclodextrin, and poloxamer for the co-delivery of minoxidil (MXD) and finasteride (FIN) to hair follicles, aiming to treat androgenic alopecia (AGA) synergistically. This hydrogel, termed M+F@ICPG, transitions from liquid to gel upon contact with the scalp, enhancing drug retention in the skin and reducing systemic toxicity. The formulation improves the solubility and targeted delivery of MXD and FIN, overcoming the stratum corneum barrier and providing synergistic effects by promoting angiogenesis, inhibiting 5α-reductase 2, and reducing inflammation. The efficacy of M+F@ICPG was demonstrated in a testosterone-induced AGA mouse model, suggesting it as a promising strategy for AGA treatment.