A Short Review on Advancement in Fast Dissolving Oral Thin Films

Abstract

The pharmaceutical industry is pursuing the development of thin films as a novel method of drug administration. Thin films as an alternative to standard dosage forms have been described. They are a very adaptable platform capable of producing immediate, local, or systemic effects. Additionally, these systems are self-administered, which is advantageous for patients with dysphagia, elderly, pediatric, or bedridden patients and those who cannot administer with water. Thin film drug delivery methods are available for oral, buccal, sublingual, ophthalmic, and transdermal administration. This review explores oral thin films in all of their elements from a contemporary standpoint and provides insight into the world's expanding market share due to the expansion of study areas and technical advancements. Simultaneously, it presents an overview of the essential parameters that affect formulation design that affects thin films, including thin-film design, anatomical and physiological constraints, and the selection of suitable manufacturing processes, characterization methodologies, and the physicochemical properties of polymers and drugs are all covered in this section. Additionally, it provides insight onto the most recent thin-films produced by various pharmaceutical companies.