Drug Repurposing of Voglibose, a Diabetes Medication for Skin Health

The study investigates the potential of voglibose, a diabetes medication, as a treatment for hyperpigmentation disorders by inhibiting melanin synthesis. Using B16F10 melanoma cells, voglibose was found to reduce melanin content and tyrosinase activity through modulation of key signaling pathways such as PKA/CREB, MAPK, PI3K/AKT, and GSK3β/β-Catenin. Human skin irritation tests with 33 participants confirmed its safety for topical application at concentrations of 50 and 100 μM. These findings suggest voglibose's potential as a repurposed drug for managing hyperpigmentation and its suitability for use in skincare products. Further research is needed to assess its effects on primary human melanocytes and confirm long-term safety.