Orally disintegrating tablets: mechanisms, preparation methods, problems and achievements

Abstract

The oral route of drug administration is considered one of the preferred delivery methods. In recent years, orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs) have become convenient pharmaceutical dosage forms, especially for specific patient populations such as pediatric, geriatric, and psychiatric patients with dysphagia. Rapid disintegration and increased bioavailability are some of the essential characteristics of ODTs that make them superior to other traditional pharmaceutical dosage forms. Orally disintegrating tablets are pills that disintegrate within a few seconds after being placed in the oral cavity. This review describes the mechanisms of drug release from ODTs, manufacturing challenges, and advancements in orally disintegrating tablet technologies.