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

    Amany Moustafa Abdel-Moiti, Farid Abd-Elreheim Badria, Sara Hamdy Fouad Aly, Hassan Abdel-Raheim Fayed
    From the encyclopedia
    Minoxidil →

    An essential vasodilator with some anti-androgenic effects

    Valproic acid →

    an anticonvulsant repurposed for hair loss via histone inhibition

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    Studysummary This study found that topical valproic acid and 5% minoxidil both significantly increased hair count in patients with female pattern hair loss, suggesting topical valproic acid as a potential treatment option.
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    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.
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