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

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 α-lipoic acid (ALA), an anti-obesity compound, in reducing subcutaneous fat accumulation. 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. 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. This study reports the successful reduction of subcutaneous fat of the calcium citrate nanoparticle-encapsulated ALA transdermal patches. The transdermal patches could be used as a safe and effective home-based solution for combating obesity.