Vol. 8, Issue 1, Part A (2026)

Oral thin films (OTFs) represent a revolutionary and highly versatile platform in modern pharmaceuticals, moving beyond traditional dosage forms like tablets and capsules. These ultra-thin, flexible polymeric films are designed to rapidly dissolve or adhere within the oral cavity, offering a superior method for drug administration, particularly for patients with dysphagia, such as pediatric, geriatric, and mentally challenged individuals. The unique characteristics of OTFs, including their ease of use, convenience, and non-invasive nature, significantly improve patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes. This review explores OTFs as an emerging platform for targeted drug delivery. By leveraging the rich vascular network of the oral mucosa, OTFs facilitate rapid absorption of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) directly into the systemic circulation, effectively bypassing first-pass metabolism and enhancing drug bioavailability. The technology can be further tailored to specific therapeutic needs, with various types of films, including fast-dissolving films for immediate-release and mucoadhesive films for sustained-release or local action. Advanced formulation techniques, incorporating novel polymers, nanotechnology, and even 3D printing, are expanding the capabilities of OTFs to deliver a broader range of drug candidates, including poorly soluble drugs, proteins, and peptides. Despite challenges such as moisture sensitivity and limited drug loading capacity, ongoing research is paving the way for the development of "smart" films that can be personalized for individual patients. This review highlights the immense potential of OTFs to revolutionize drug delivery, not only by improving patient experience but also by offering a strategic platform for targeted, efficient, and precise therapeutic intervention.