Oral Thin Film: A New Approach for Drug Delivery

Abstract

Oral thin films (OTFs) are gaining popularity in the pharmaceutical industry for their advantages over traditional oral dosage forms, especially for patients with swallowing difficulties, such as children and the elderly. OTFs provide a discreet, convenient, and fast-acting method of drug administration. They dissolve quickly in saliva, enabling rapid absorption through the oral mucosa, bypassing first-pass metabolism and enhancing bioavailability, which can reduce required doses and side effects. OTFs are particularly useful for poorly soluble drugs and allow for precise dosing, making them ideal for pediatric patients. They can also mask unpleasant tastes, improving patient acceptance. Research on OTFs is expanding, with innovations like pH-sensitive films, micro-pellet-loaded films, and the potential for delivering vaccines and probiotics. The OTF market is projected to reach $7.65 billion by 2028, growing at a 13.6% CAGR. Future developments focus on personalized OTFs, made possible by printing technologies like inkjet and 3D printing, offering tailored dosing and drug combinations. OTFs hold great promise to revolutionize drug delivery, benefiting both patients and healthcare providers.

Keywords: Oral thin film, Pediatric and geriatric drug dosing, market growth of OTF, Technologies of preparation of film.