Fast Dissolving Tablets Using Natural Polymers: A Comprehensive Review on Formulation Strategies, Mechanisms, and Future Prospects

Tablets are the most widely used dosage form, comprising around 70% of all medications. Oral administration is the preferred route due to its convenience, often enhanced with coatings and colorants. However, swallowing difficulties, especially in pediatric and elderly patients, can pose challenges. To address this, alternative routes such as buccal, sublingual, and vaginal formulations have been developed. Among innovative solutions, orally dispersible tablets (ODTs) have gained attention. These tablets rapidly disintegrate in the mouth without the need for water, improving compliance, ease of administration, and treatment adherence. ODTs, also known as fast-dissolving tablets (FDTs), porous tablets, or rapimelts, deliver drugs in a dissolved or suspended form, ensuring faster onset of action. The use of natural polymers like starch, alginate, and gelatin in their formulation is increasing due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and low toxicity. These polymers absorb saliva quickly and promote rapid tablet disintegration. For instance, alginate forms gels that enable controlled drug release, while gelatinised starch enhances drug dispersion. Incorporating such polymers improves therapeutic outcomes and patient compliance. Ongoing research continues to refine these systems, promising more effective and accessible medication delivery methods. This review compiles relevant insights to support future academic and pharmaceutical advancements.