ORAL FAST-DISSOLVING FILMS AS CARRIERS FOR SOLID DISPERSION SYSTEMS: A REVIEW

Fast dissolving oral films (FDOFs) have emerged as an advanced oral drug delivery system aimed at improving patient compliance, rapid onset of action, and bioavailability, particularly for poorly water-soluble drugs. Oral delivery remains the most preferred route due to its convenience and cost-effectiveness; however, limitations such as poor solubility and first-pass metabolism necessitate innovative approaches. FDOFs disintegrate rapidly in the oral cavity without the need for water, allowing pre-gastric absorption through buccal and sublingual mucosa. The incorporation of solid dispersion techniques—such as melting, solvent evaporation, hot melt extrusion, and lyophilization enhances drug solubility, dissolution rate, and uniformity by reducing particle size and crystallinity. Various polymers including HPMC, pullulan, PVA, starch derivatives, and xanthan gum have demonstrated excellent film-forming properties and rapid disintegration. Literature findings confirm that FDOFs exhibit superior physicochemical characteristics, faster drug release, and improved therapeutic efficacy compared to conventional dosage forms, making them a promising alternative for pediatric, geriatric, and dysphagic patients.