Fast dissolving oral thin films: an innovative herbal drug delivery system

Abstract

Fast-dissolving drug delivery systems were first developed as an alternative to common dosage forms in the late 1970s. The oral thin film is an innovative drug administration approach based on transdermal patch technology. These systems consist of solid dosage forms that dissolve and disintegrate quickly in the mouth without the need for water. Oral thin films (OTFs) and oral disintegrating tablets (ODTs) are two types of fast-acting pharmaceutical delivery methods. ODTs are "A solid dosage form containing medicinal substances, which disintegrates rapidly, usually within a matter of seconds, when placed upon the tongue." As a result, OTFs hydrate fast before dissolving or disintegrating, allowing the medicine to be absorbed locally and systemically. This method provides a solid platform for extending the patient lives of existing products while also developing new ones without infringing on patients. Fast- dissolving oral thin films are being used for sublingual and gastro retentive administration methods in addition to the buccal technique. This review focusses on the composition of various types of polymers, both natural and synthetic, as well as manufacturing processes, packaging materials, and OTF evaluation tests.