Evaluation of Topical Sodium Valproate-Loaded Nano Spanlastics Formulation versus Minoxidil® 5% in The Treatment of Female Pattern Hair Loss Using Transdermal Delivery: A Comparative Study

The study evaluated the effectiveness of topical Valproic acid (VPA) and 5% topical minoxidil in treating Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL). It included 81 patients with FPHL, divided into three groups: 27 treated with topical sodium valproate-loaded nano spanlastics formulation, 27 treated with minoxidil® 5% lotion, and 27 treated with saline using transdermal delivery for 6 months. The results showed that both VPA and minoxidil significantly increased the total hair count compared to the control group (P = 0.047). Adverse events were moderate and self-limiting in both groups, with comparable prevalence rates (P = 0.72). The study concluded that topical VPA is a potential therapy option for FPHL.