Engineered Dutasteride-Lipid Based Nanoparticle (DST-LNP) System Using Oleic and Stearic Acid for Topical Delivery

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Dermatology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Male pattern baldness (MPB) significantly impacts men's psycho-social well-being.
• Existing alcohol-based topical treatments can cause adverse reactions.
• There is a need for novel, alcohol-free formulations for MPB treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To engineer an alcohol-free lipid-based nanoparticle (LNP) formulation for topical dutasteride (DST) delivery.
• To evaluate the role of oleic acid in the DST-loaded LNP system.
• To assess the suitability of the formulation for dermal delivery of anti-androgenic molecules.

Main Methods:

• DST-loaded LNPs were prepared using emulsification-ultrasonication.
• Two formulations were created: one with oleic acid (Formulation A) and one without (Formulation B).
• Characterization included size, shape, entrapment efficiency, X-ray diffractometry, drug release, and skin permeation studies.

Main Results:

• All formulations were spherical, in the nanometric size range (150-300 nm), with >75% entrapment efficiency.
• Dutasteride was found in an amorphous state within the LNP matrices.
• Formulation A (with oleic acid) exhibited significantly lower dutasteride permeation into the dermis compared to Formulation B.

Conclusions:

• The developed alcohol-free LNP formulation is suitable for topical dutasteride delivery.
• Oleic acid may play a role in modulating drug permeation, potentially enhancing safety.
• The novel formulation shows promise for the dermal delivery of anti-androgenic compounds for MPB treatment.