Gaurav
Ph.D Scholar, Delhi Pharmaceutical Science and Research University, India
Title: In vivo Assessment of Scalp Retention and Penetration of Minoxidil Solutions using Scintigraphy
Biography:
Mr. Gaurav is a nanomedicine researcher who focuses on alopecia and its treatment. He has two years of experience 3D printing tablets and is interested in developing novel Alopecia treatment solutions. He has worked in both hospitals and educational institutions, doing research and evaluating drug and delivery systems. His strategy is unique, and his execution is as effective.
Abstract:
Background: Efficacy of minoxidil for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia has been demonstrated through several clinical studies, however scalp retention and penetration, which is imperative for application frequency, has not been determined till date.
Methods: The scalp retention and penetration of the three radiolabeled minoxidil (5%) formulations: Formulation A (40% alcohol and 60% water); B (30% alcohol, 10% PG and 60% water) and C (40% alcohol, 10% HPC and 60% water) were prepared. Ex vivo retention, penetration and permeation was conducted using swine ear skin and in vivo scalp retention and penetration of the formulations was evaluated in human participants with male pattern baldness using scintigraphy.
Results: Minoxidil radiolabeling efficiency of 99.1% was observed when 0.2% stannous chloride was used as reducing agent at pH 6 and incubation temperature of 40°C. Results showed that formulation C containing 10% HPC demonstrated highest viscosity (0.8 Pa.s) and significantly higher ex vivo retention (p < 0.05) and permeation (0.75±0.12%, 8h) compared to Formulation A (0.40±0.05%, 8h) and B (0.44±0.05%, 8h). In vivo studies using human scalp showed significantly higher (p < 0.05) scalp retention in FC group (57±2.3%) compared to FA (41±1.9%) and FB (44±3.4%) group. Post 8 h application of formulation, scalp penetration in FC group was nearly 2.8-fold and 2.2-fold higher than group FA and FB, respectively. Further, absence of minoxidil in systemic circulation during study duration indicates safety.
Conclusions: In conclusion, increasing the contact time of formulation with scalp by modifying viscosity might result in reduced frequency of application and improved efficacy.