RECENT ADVANCEMENTS AND FUTURE TRENDS IN FAST DISINTEGRATING DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM: A FOCUS ON NATURAL SUPERDISINTEGRANTS

Fast disintegrating tablets (FDTs) represent a significant advancement in oral drug delivery systems, offering rapid disintegration and absorption without the need for water, thereby improving patient compliance. This review provides a comprehensive overview of FDTs, emphasizing their advantages, suitable drug candidates, and formulation strategies. A key focus is placed on natural superdisintegrants as sustainable alternatives to synthetic counterparts. Natural agents like starch, psyllium husk, and aloe vera demonstrate promising efficacy in enhancing tablet disintegration, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly excipients. The review further discusses the role of FDA-approved natural polymers and highlights patented technologies such as Zydis®, Orasolv®, and FlashDose® that drive innovation in FDT development. Additionally, various preparation methods—ranging from direct compression to lyophilization—are discussed, addressing their impact on disintegration times and tablet quality. The article also covers regulatory requirements for FDT approval, including stability and taste-masking considerations. Recent advancements, including 3D printing and nanotechnology, are explored as potential game-changers in personalized medicine and FDT manufacturing. Finally, future trends toward the expanded use of natural polymers, smarter FDT designs, and the broader application of these tablets in complex drug therapies.

Keywords: Fast disintegrating tablets, natural superdisintegrants, oral drug delivery, patented technologies, sustainable polymers