Fast Dissolving Tablets:A Novel Approach in the Delivery System

Fast dissolving tablets are the newer form of drugs which do not require water for their intake. They are not chewable and are very easy to take for the patients who have difficulty in taking tablets or capsules. These tablets can be dissolved into the mouth within a matter of seconds. The release of the drug in the mouth takes place with the help of saliva and immediately show their effect. These can be given to the pediatric, geriatric or the patients who are bedridden or who have problem in swallowing of tablets. As the drug directly disintegrates in the mouth, so these do not undergo first pass metabolism due to which the chances of liver dysfunction also decreases. The bioavailability of these drugs may be increased due to the absorption in the oral cavity as most of the drug is absorbed in the mouth and start showing its effect. Fast dissolving tablets generally show a greater advantage over conventional dosage forms as they are easy for people who find difficulty to swallow. This review includes various characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, some patented technologies for FDT's, different superdisintegrants and marketed formulations.