Novel formulations for topical delivery of tranexamic acid: Assessing the need of epidermal targeting for hyperpigmentation disorders

INTRODUCTION

Tranexamic acid is used for the treatment of hyperpigmentation and the topical route is the most favorable route for its administration. Tranexamic acid lowers plasmin and tyrosinase, which reduces melanin and skin hyperpigmentation. Low penetration through the outer layer of skin and low availability at target melanocyte cells limit tranexamic acid topical administration. Different novel delivery systems like liposomes, microneedles, topical beads, and microparticles can help in overcoming these limitations.

AREAS COVERED

The mechanism of action of tranexamic acid and novel delivery systems for its topical delivery have been discussed. Further patents related to the topical delivery of tranexamic acid and clinical trials undertaken to analyze their potential have been discussed.

EXPERT OPINION

Targeting tranexamic acid in the epidermal layer makes more amount of drug available for action on melanocytes, the target site for tranexamic Acid. Novel drug delivery formulations like liposomes, SLNs, NLCs, and topical beads have the potential of achieving epidermal targeting. Epidermal targeting of tranexamic acid can help in the superior delivery of the drug, making its topical treatment more efficient.

Skin Hyperpigmentation in Indian Population: Insights and Best Practice

Skin pigmentation is one of the most strikingly variable phenotypes in humans, therefore making cutaneous pigmentation disorders frequent symptoms manifesting in a multitude of forms. The most common among them include lentigines, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, dark eye circles, and melasma. Variability of skin tones throughout the world is well-documented, some skin tones being reported as more susceptible to pigmentation disorders than others, especially in Asia and India. Furthermore, exposure to ultraviolet radiation is known to trigger or exacerbate pigmentation disorders. Preventive strategies for photoprotection and treatment modalities including topical and other medical approaches have been adopted by dermatologists to mitigate these disorders. This review article outlines the current knowledge on pigmentation disorders including pathophysiology, molecular profiling, and therapeutic options with a special focus on the Indian population.