Advancements in Mouth Dissolving Films: Emerging Technologies, Polymers, and Drug Delivery Strategies with an Overview of Anti-Hypertensive and Anti-Depressant Drugs

Mouth-Dissolving Films (MDFs) have revolutionized drug delivery systems due to a non-invasive route of administration and improved patient adherence. This article reviews the integration of novel drug delivery technologies, inventive polymers, and modern manufacturing processes into MDFs. Industrial revolution technologies such as 3D printing, electrospinning, and hot melt extrusion, enable precision, customization, and scalability for efficient production, overcoming the other conventional methods' precision limitations. Moreover, the incorporation of novel natural, synthetic, and biodegradable polymers increases the stability, mechanical properties, and environmental impact of MDFs. On the other hand, synthetic polymers, such as polyvinyl alcohol and polyethylene glycol, provide uniformity and control, while pullulan and xanthan gum are much more affordable natural polymers. Even though polylactic acid and polycaprolactone are more expensive biodegradable polymers, they are more environmentally beneficial. MDFs enable the integration of novel drug-delivery methods, such as hydrogels, liposomes, microspheres, and even nanoparticles, to enhance therapeutic effectiveness through improved bioavailability, enhanced absorption, and controlled release. Most importantly, the use of 3D printing technology improves all aspects of MDF production, providing us with the possibility of personalization for medicine with complicated shapes where disintegration and dose delivery are needed. This review presents an insightful perspective on the forthcoming advancements and initiatives to be upgraded in MDFs and how innovations can mitigate existing challenges in the manufacturing and delivery of MDFs. In this regard, the continuous improvement of these domains will contribute significantly towards the production of effective and convenient means of drug delivery.