The effects of alpha-lipoic acid transdermal patch for local subcutaneous fat reduction: A randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial in overweight volunteers

Background: Combating obesity is challenging, as anti-obesity compounds lose effectiveness or cause severe side effects when delivered via conventional routes. Thus, there is a need for new, effective treatment routes that are home-based and safe for long-term use. This double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial aimed to investigate the efficacy of a biocellulose transdermal patch containing alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), an anti-obesity compound, in reducing subcutaneous fat accumulation. Methods: One hundred and sixteen overweight participants (average age 37.96 +/- 7.80 years) were recruited for the study. They were randomly assigned to apply either the calcium citrate nanoparticle-encapsulated ALA transdermal patch or a placebo on their arm. The participants' body weight, height, blood lipid profile (cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein), arm circumference, triceps skin fold, and subcutaneous fat thickness were recorded at baseline and at the 2-week follow-up. Results: The mean arm circumference did not show any significant difference from baseline, whereas the triceps skinfold and subcutaneous fat thickness showed a significant reduction. The 2-week treatment did not significantly alter the plasma LDL, HDL, and triglyceride levels of the participants, but it significantly reduced the total cholesterol level. Conclusion: This study reports the successful reduction of subcutaneous fat of the calcium citrate nanoparticleencapsulated ALA transdermal patches. The transdermal patches could be used as a safe and effective homebased solution for combating obesity.