What is an orally disintegrating film?

An orally disintegrating film (ODF) is a drug-containing film that can be placed on the tongue and disintegrates in seconds without the need for water. It is an innovative drug delivery system designed to provide convenient medication management, especially for those who have difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules.

ODFs are made by mixing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) with film-forming polymers, plasticizers and other excipients. The mixture is then cast in thin layers and dried to make ODF.  ODFs have several advantages over traditional oral dosage forms. They are easy to administer, convenient to use, and can be tailored for immediate, sustained, or targeted drug release.

ODF has been used in a variety of healthcare applications, including over-the-counter products such as vitamins, minerals and supplements, as well as prescription drugs to treat conditions such as erectile dysfunction, Parkinson’s disease and migraines.  ODF is also used to treat psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression.

The growing demand for ODF has spurred the development of new technologies to improve production efficiency and optimize formulations. This includes the use of hot-melt extrusion, controlled release technology and multi-layer designs. The use of novel polymers and excipients for faster disintegration and improved taste-masking has also been explored.

The ODF market is growing rapidly driven by factors including increasing disease prevalence, increasing demand for patient-centric drug delivery systems, and growing interest in non-invasive and easy-to-use drugs. According to a report by Transparency Market Research, the global ODF market was valued at USD 7.5 billion in 2019 and is expected to reach USD 13.8 billion by 2027, at a CAGR of 7.8%.

In summary, ODF is an innovative drug delivery system that offers several advantages over traditional oral dosage forms. This film provides a convenient and effective way of administering medicine, especially for those who have difficulty swallowing or swallowing. With continued research and technological advancements in formulation and production, the use of ODF is likely to increase in the coming years, opening up new opportunities for the healthcare industry.


Post time: May-26-2023

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