Advances and Perspectives in Orodispersible Tablets: Natural and Synthetic Superdisintegrants for Enhanced Drug Delivery

Orodispersible tablets (ODTs) are innovative dosage forms designed to disintegrate rapidly in the oral cavity without the need for water, enhancing patient compliance particularly in pediatric, geriatric, and dysphagic populations. Metoprolol tartrate, a beta-blocker with solubility and bioavailability challenges, benefits from formulation as ODTs using natural superdisintegrants. Hibiscus rosa sinensis leaf mucilage, a natural polymer, has demonstrated significant potential as an effective superdisintegrant due to its swelling and water absorption properties. This review discusses the formulation strategies, evaluation of physicochemical and mechanical properties, and the disintegration and dissolution profiles of metoprolol tartrate ODTs employing hibiscus mucilage. Various concentrations of the mucilage affect tablet disintegration and drug release, where optimal levels enhance performance while excessive amounts may impede it. The natural origin, safety, and cost-effectiveness of hibiscus mucilage support its role as a promising excipient for orodispersible formulations. Future research should focus on optimizing formulations for stability, patient acceptability, and scalability.