Advances in Buccal Films: A Promising Platform for Oral Mucosal Drug Delivery: An updated review

The buccal route offers a non-invasive method for drug administration that improves systemic absorption by bypassing hepatic first-pass metabolism. This article summarises recent innovations, including the incorporation of nanoparticles and 3D printing technologies, with a particular focus on challenges in biologics delivery and clinical translation. The discussion encompasses anatomical considerations, mechanisms of adhesion, formulation design, and evaluation procedures, with applications ranging from local therapies to systemic treatments for conditions such as chronic pain, neurological disorders, and immunisation. Limitations such as reduced drug-loading capacity and saliva-induced erosion are critically examined, alongside potential solutions offered by novel polymer systems. The paper also explores emerging prospects, including the role of artificial intelligence in design optimisation and evolving regulatory frameworks that could accelerate the clinical adoption of buccal films.