TLDR The transfollicular route shows promise for noninvasive, targeted drug delivery but needs more research.
The document explored the potential of the transfollicular route for drug delivery, emphasizing its advantages such as noninvasiveness, sustained drug delivery, and reduced systemic toxicity. Hair follicles were identified as significant pathways for drug penetration due to their large contact area and storage volume. The use of nanoparticles was highlighted for improving drug delivery to hair follicles, allowing for targeted and sustained release. Clinical applications included treatments for hair diseases, acne, and transcutaneous immunization. Despite its promise, the transfollicular route required further exploration and optimization to meet safety and usability standards. The study also reviewed various nanotechnology-based delivery systems and discussed their safety profile and regulatory considerations.
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62 citations
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January 2014 in “Aaps Journal” Squarticles effectively deliver hair growth drugs to follicles and dermal papilla cells.
97 citations
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September 2011 in “British Journal of Dermatology” The human hair follicle can store topical compounds and be targeted for drug delivery with minimal side effects.
46 citations
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182 citations
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December 2007 in “BJCP. British journal of clinical pharmacology/British journal of clinical pharmacology” Hair follicles significantly increase the speed and amount of caffeine absorbed through the skin.
316 citations
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82 citations
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January 2002 in “Journal of drug targeting” Drugs penetrate scalp skin better than abdominal skin, with scalp hair follicles aiding in higher drug delivery.
124 citations
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April 2000 in “Nature biotechnology”