Fast Dissolving Film as an Alternative to Conventional Oral Dosage Forms

Fast-dissolving film is an accurate and accepted oral dosage form that bypasses the hepatic system and results in a therapeutic response. It is preferred by pharmaceutical industries for its acceptance by both industry and patients, especially among pediatric and elderly patients. This dosage form is cost-effective and meets consumer demand, which allows it to be used as a replacement for over-the-counter (OTC), generic, and brand-name medications. When placed in the oral cavity, fast-dissolving film immediately absorbs moisture, adheres to the application site, and then break down to release the drug. Thus, fast-dissolving films offer significant advantages over other solid oral dosage forms. This review provides an overview of the polymers commonly used in drugs classified under BCS Class I to BCS Class IV, as well as factors that influence drug absorption. Solubility and permeability are the main factors that limit the effectiveness of oral fast-dissolving films for drugs in BCS Class II and BCS Class III. It also includes a brief description of the various technologies used in the formulation of oral films, along with the manufacturing process, evaluation methods, and pharmaceutical applications.