Polymeric Based Bioinspired Microneedle Patch for the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA)
摘要
AGA is the most common cause of hair loss affecting female and male individuals at various ages. Separate topical treatments with minoxidil and Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) are available, but they are associated with various side effects and drawbacks, leading to poor patient compliance. The present work aims to develop a Polymeric microneedle patch for the co-delivery of minoxidil and Vitamin E.
MethodVarious microneedle patch formulations (F1-F6) were prepared by the micro-mold casting method. The optimized formulation was selected based on scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), tensile strength, thickness, percentage elongation, in-vitro release study, ex-vivo permeation study, and in-vivo biocompatibility study.
ResultsBased on the results, the F5 formulation containing a 2% thiolated chitosan solution was considered an optimised formulation, showing promising sustained-release properties (49.939 ± 5.92% for minoxidil and 51.513 ± 7.33% for Vitamin E). An improved permeation profile (40% drug permeation) was observed in the ex-vivo permeation study. Furthermore, irritation results (PII was 0.1 ± 1, showing negligible irritation, indicating its safety and biocompatibility to skin.
ConclusionThus, the optimized microneedle patch may show an enhanced hair growth effect through the synergistic effect of both minoxidil and Vitamin E.