Method for treating hair growth disorders, such as female pattern alopecia, and compositions useful therefore
Inventors
Jacobson, Elaine L. • Jacobson, Myron K. • Kim, Hyuntae • Coyle, Donna L. • Coyle, William R.
Assignees
University of Kentucky • Niadyne Inc • Arizona's Public Universities
Publication Number
US-8790626-B2
Publication Date
2014-07-29
Expiration Date
2026-06-26
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Abstract
The invention relates to formulations useful in treating hair disorders, improving the health of hair, increasing hair growth, and in increasing the niacin content of hair follicles. Nicotinic acid alkyl esters having a straight chain alkyl group of from 1 to 22 methylene units, preferably from 6 to 16 methylene units, and most preferably from 8 to 14 methyl units, may be used, alone or in combinations for treating these conditions.
Core Innovation
The invention relates to compositions for stimulating hair follicles and treating hair growth disorders, such as alopecia, particularly in females. These compositions contain at least two nicotinic acid alkyl esters: a first ester that delivers niacin to hair follicle cells without causing vasodilation and with sufficient residence time for conversion to niacin, and a second ester that stimulates blood flow and oxygen delivery to the cells.
The first nicotinic acid alkyl ester has an alkyl moiety with 11 to 22 carbon atoms, and the second ester has a shorter alkyl group of 6 to 10 carbon atoms. Preferably, the first ester is myristyl nicotinate (C14), and the second is octyl nicotinate (C8). Compositions can include only one or combinations of these esters and may be formulated in various topical forms such as solutions, shampoos, creams, or gels.
The problem addressed by the invention is the lack of effective therapies for female pattern hair loss (alopecia), which currently has limited treatment options such as minoxidil or surgical transplants. The invention aims to provide an alternative approach using nicotinic acid alkyl esters, which can deliver benefits to hair follicles by increasing NAD content and cellular energy without undesirable side effects like vasodilation. The compositions may also increase hair fullness, thickness, and overall quality.
Claims Coverage
There is one independent claim in the patent, outlining a core inventive feature regarding the composition for treating hair loss disorders.
Composition of nicotinic acid alkyl esters for treating hair loss disorder
A composition for treating a hair loss disorder consisting of: - A first nicotinic acid alkyl ester, where the alkyl moiety is 11 to 22 carbon atoms in length. - A second nicotinic acid alkyl ester, where the alkyl moiety is 6 to 10 carbon atoms in length. - A pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Both alkyl esters are defined by the number of carbons in their alkyl moieties, and the composition is specifically intended for the treatment of hair loss disorders.
The inventive feature centers on a composition consisting of two specified nicotinic acid alkyl esters and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for the treatment of hair loss disorders.
Stated Advantages
Delivers niacin to hair follicle cells without vasodilation, enabling increased NAD content and cellular energy in the follicles.
Enhances growth, fullness, thickness, and overall quality of scalp hair.
Provides an alternative to limited existing options for treating female pattern hair loss.
Documented Applications
Treatment of hair growth disorders such as female pattern alopecia (pattern hair loss), particularly in females.
Use in increasing the NAD content of hair follicles to improve hair health and energy status.
Increasing the thickness or fullness of pre-existing hair.
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