Exploiting Recent Trends in the Treatment of Androgenic Alopecia through Topical Nanocarriers of Minoxidil

Abstract

Androgenic alopecia, a polygenetic disorder, is characterized by well-defined hair loss that progresses gradually. The disease affects both males and females and exerts a drastic impact on a person's psychological well-being. Minoxidil (MIN) is the commonly prescribed FDA-approved agent for the treatment of disease. It is conventionally administered as a topical solution but is allied with several adverse reactions, such as erythema and dermatitis, resulting in decreased patient compliance. To overcome these side effects, researchers developed various nanocarriers of MIN. Encapsulation of MIN in various nanocarriers enhances the entry of the drug into hair follicles and results in the formation of reservoirs for controlled delivery of the drug. It also increases the therapeutic outcomes in comparison to conventional formulations. The present review discusses the composition and physicochemical properties of different nanocarrier systems of MIN. Although successful encapsulation of MIN has been observed in these nanocarriers, there is still scarce data regarding their loading in a final dosage form. This allows researchers to conduct more in vivo studies and focus on their clinical applications. HIGHLIGHTS: • Androgenic alopecia is a polygenetic disorder with gradual loss of hair that progresses with age. • Minoxidil An FDA-approved drug for the treatment of androgenic alopecia. • Is allied with several adverse reactions, having decreased therapeutic efficacy. • Several nanocarriers including polymeric lipid-based and inorganic nanoparticles have been developed to improve their therapeutic efficacy. • Utilization of these nanocarriers results in increased retention of MIN within the hair follicles and utilizes low concentrations of solvents. • Modifications of different physicochemical properties of these carriers I.e. Particle size Zeta potential and entrapment efficiency are important to attain the above objectives.

Keywords: androgenic alopecia; follicular delivery; minoxidil; nanoparticles; scalp.