Finasteride-Loaded Phospholipid-Bile Salt Mixed Micelles for Targeted Follicular Delivery in Androgenetic Alopecia

The study explores the use of finasteride-loaded phospholipid-bile salt mixed micelles for targeted follicular delivery in treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA). These micelles, composed of egg phosphatidylcholine and sodium cholate, aim to enhance follicular targeting while minimizing systemic absorption, which is a limitation of conventional topical formulations. The optimized micelles demonstrated a high encapsulation efficiency of 98.5% and sustained drug release over 48 hours. In an AGA mouse model, the micelles significantly improved hair regrowth, increased follicle number and length, and enhanced follicular proliferation compared to a hydroalcoholic finasteride solution. Importantly, serum dihydrotestosterone levels were higher in the micelle-treated group, indicating reduced systemic absorption. These findings suggest that EPC-SC micelles could be a safer and more effective topical treatment strategy for AGA.