A Review on Fast Dissolving Systems: From Tablets to Nanofibers

Context: Oral administration of drugs remains the most common and preferred route for many active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). However, solid oral dosage forms may be limited for patients who have swallowing problems or fear of choking. Furthermore in the case of solid dosage forms, disintegration and dissolution of dosage forms are rate limiting steps mostly for hydrophobic drug's absorption and bioavailability. Liquid oral dosage forms such as syrups, emulsions or suspensions may be used to overcome these disadvantages but higher costs of their production and larger volume and dimensions of their packaging along with the lower precision in dose intake make the liquid oral dosage form less acceptable for patients and pharmaceutical industries.
Evidence Acquisition: In order to merge the advantages of both solid and liquid oral dosage forms, fast dissolving drug delivery systems have been developed over the years. The current review aimed to discuss the pros and cons of different preparations of oral fast dissolving dosage forms including tablets, films and nanofibers.
Fast dissolving dosage forms rapidly dissolve in mouth without the need for additional liquid or chewing, providing ease of use for consumers, a fast absorption of drug, quick onset of action, and improved bioavailability. Various technologies to fabricate these dosage forms such as lyophilization, spray drying, solvent casting, hot melt extrusion, compaction and electrospinning are also addressed.
Fast dissolving drug delivery systems are the promising approach in oral drug delivery systems, which can provide patient compliance especially in case of pediatrics and geriatrics. They can also lead to quick action of drugs and enhanced bioavailability.