Minoxidil-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC): characterization and rheological behaviour of topical formulations

This study focused on developing nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) for delivering minoxidil as an alternative to conventional topical solutions. The NLC were composed of stearic and oleic acids, stabilized with poloxamer 188, and mixed with Carbopol or perfluorocarbon-based hydrogels. The minoxidil-loaded NLC were approximately 250 nm in size and remained below 500 nm after gel incorporation. Analysis confirmed no minoxidil crystallization in the aqueous phase, and the recrystallization index was 68% for minoxidil-loaded dispersions. Rheological analysis indicated that the hydrogels exhibited pseudoplastic behavior, making them suitable for topical application.