Fast-dissolving intraoral drug delivery systems

Fast-dissolving drug delivery is rapidly gaining interest in the pharmaceutical industry. These delivery systems either dissolve or disintegrate in the mouth rapidly, without requiring any water to aid in swallowing. Such technologies offer a convenient way of dosing medications, not only to special population groups with swallowing difficulties, but also to the general population. They also impart unique product differentiation, thus enabling use as line extensions for existing commercial products. This review discusses the various technologies in recent patents used to achieve quick dissolution/dispersion in the oral cavity. They are categorised based on either processing or formulation variables. Processing techniques, such as lyophilisation, tablet moulding, sublimation and spray drying, are discussed in this article. Review of the formulation techniques includes addition of sugar-based ingredients, foaming agents and disintegrants. Finally, an emerging novel dosage form, a quick-dissolving film, is discussed.