Drug Repurposing of Voglibose, a Diabetes Medication for Skin Health

Voglibose, a diabetes medication, shows promise as an anti-melanogenic agent for treating hyperpigmentation disorders. In this study, voglibose was tested on B16F10 melanoma cells, where it significantly reduced melanin synthesis and tyrosinase activity in a dose-dependent manner. The drug decreased the expression of melanogenic proteins MITF, TRP-1, and TRP-2, and modulated signaling pathways such as PKA/CREB, MAPK, and AKT, while restoring GSK3β activity. Human skin irritation tests confirmed its safety for topical use at concentrations of 50 and 100 μM. These findings suggest voglibose's potential as a repurposed drug for hyperpigmentation treatment and cosmeceutical applications.