Solid Dispersion-Based Approaches for Improving Oral Bioavailability: Current Progress and Future Perspectives

Poor water solubility remains a key challenge in the oral delivery of many active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), particularly those in BCS Class II and IV, often resulting in low bioavailability and limited therapeutic effect. Solid dispersion (SD) technology has gained widespread attention as a practical and effective solution to this issue by improving solubility and dissolution rates. This review outlines recent developments in SD systems, including novel carriers, advanced techniques like hot-melt extrusion and spray drying, and polymer innovations that support stable amorphous drug formulations. It also covers SD classification, analytical methods such as DSC and TMDSC, and the mechanisms behind enhanced drug absorption. Overall, solid dispersions are emphasized as a flexible, efficient, and commercially promising approach to boost the oral bioavailability of poorly soluble APIs.