TLDR Freeze-dried dexamethasone nanoparticles in a hydrogel are stable and effective for treating alopecia areata.
The study developed freeze-dried dexamethasone-loaded lipomers for treating alopecia areata, focusing on the effects of different cryoprotectants on nanoparticle stability and efficacy. Sucrose was identified as the optimal cryoprotectant, maintaining good resuspension and acceptable physicochemical properties. The freeze-drying process altered particle size, drug release, and skin permeation but did not affect cytotoxicity or anti-inflammatory efficacy on human keratinocytes. Incorporating these nanoparticles into a xanthan gum hydrogel showed potential for improved drug delivery and patient compliance due to enhanced follicular targeting and drug accumulation at the site of action.
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