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Updated: Mar 13, 2026
08:18
Self-Nanoemulsification of Healthy Oils to Enhance the Solubility of Lipophilic Drugs
Published on: July 27, 2022
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Solid effervescent formulations as new approach for topical minoxidil delivery.
Maíra N Pereira1, Heidi L Schulte1, Natane Duarte1
1Laboratory of Food, Drug and Cosmetics (LTMAC), University of Brasilia, Brasilia, BR, Brazil.
Summary
This study introduces a novel effervescent minoxidil sulphate (MXS) formulation. The new approach enhances MXS accumulation in hair follicles, potentially improving hair loss treatment efficacy and patient compliance.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pharmaceutics
- Drug Delivery
Background:
- Current minoxidil formulations cause hair greasiness, scalp dryness, and irritation.
- There is a need for improved minoxidil delivery systems to enhance efficacy and patient experience.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a novel solid effervescent formulation for minoxidil sulphate (MXS) delivery.
- To investigate if effervescence-triggered particle movement enhances follicular accumulation of MXS.
Main Methods:
- Preformulation studies (thermal, spectroscopic, morphological analysis) assessed drug-excipient compatibility.
- In vitro studies compared MXS accumulation in hair follicle casts and skin between effervescent and solution formulations.
- Drug permeation was evaluated based on effervescent mixture concentration.
Main Results:
- The effervescent formulation showed a 2.7-fold increase in MXS follicular accumulation compared to solution.
- A significant 4-fold increase in MXS in the remaining skin was observed with the effervescent formulation.
- Drug permeation was significantly enhanced by the effervescent reaction, dependent on concentration.
Conclusions:
- Solid effervescent formulations offer a promising approach for enhanced minoxidil sulphate delivery.
- This novel delivery system has the potential to improve therapeutic effectiveness and patient compliance in hair loss treatments.
- Further research is required to confirm follicular targeting and assess the safety profile of these new formulations.
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