Oral Disintegrating Films: A Review

Abstract

The oral route stands out as a preferred method for drug administration due to its cost-effectiveness and ease, contributing to enhanced patient compliance. Some individuals, particularly the geriatric and pediatric populations, encounter difficulties swallowing conventional tablets and hard gelatin capsules. To address this, oral disintegrating drug delivery systems are established as substitutes for tablets, capsules, and syrups. Notably, fast-dissolving oral thin films offer a practical solution for patients such as those in pediatric, bedridden, or developmentally disabled categories, as well as the geriatric population who struggle with a tablet or hard gelatin capsule ingestion. This innovative dosage form involves the creation of thin films consuming water-soluble polymers that quickly disintegrate and dissolve in the mouth cavity. It serves as a substitute stage for those particles that undergo significant metabolism of drugs in the liver. This study provides an overview of numerous dosage form-formulations, preparation approaches, and quality control measures related to fast-disintegrating films.