Formulation and Evaluation of Metformin Hydrochloride Buccal Patch

Transdermal drug delivery system is a selfcontained delivery system used for topical application in the form of a multilaminated adhesive patch, which delivers a specific dose of drug at a predetermined rate and controls the drug release rate through the skin. This system provides constant drug release and enables continuous delivery of drugs with short biological half-lives, eliminating pulsed entry into the bloodstream. Several drugs that would otherwise degrade in the gastrointestinal tract have been successfully administered via this route. This method is especially beneficial for patients experiencing repeated emesis or dysphagia, who are unable to swallow large amounts of water. In this context, the significance of oral transmucosal drug delivery and its advantages over conventional oral delivery systems has been emphasized. Chronic hyperglycemia, as seen in diabetes, leads to longterm damage and dysfunction of organs, necessitating long-term medication. Metformin, an antihyperglycemic agent for type 2 diabetes, has poor bioavailability (50–60%) and a short biological half-life, requiring frequent high-dose administration. Glibenclamide, another oral hypoglycemic agent, is commonly used as well. This study aims to develop a polymer-based (chitosan) oral disintegrating film system for metformin, overcoming its limitations through improved delivery and bioavailability. The disintegration and bioavailability of these oral thin films (OTFs) are enhanced using superdisintegrants like starch, sodium starch glycolate, and microcrystalline cellulose. This approach offers a rapid, efficient drug delivery method. As diabetes prevalence is expected to rise significantly by 2025, such innovative delivery systems could provide a practical solution for improving therapeutic outcomes.