Lipid Nanoparticles for Topical and Transdermal Application for Alopecia Treatment: Development, Physicochemical Characterization, and In Vitro Release and Penetration Studies

The document from March 1, 2014, presents a study on the development of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) for delivering minoxidil and finasteride for alopecia treatment. The NLCs were characterized by their size, surface charge, and morphology, and were found to have a mean size of around 200 nm and a stable zeta potential of about -30 mV, indicating good physical stability. Finasteride showed high loading efficiency (70-90%), while minoxidil was less efficient (<30%). In vitro release studies indicated a prolonged release for minoxidil, but finasteride did not release significantly within 24 hours. Penetration studies through pig ear skin showed low penetration levels for both drugs. The study concluded that the NLCs have potential as a delivery system for alopecia treatment, but further research is needed to improve skin penetration. The number of participants or samples was not specified as the study focused on in vitro experiments.