Orodispersible tablets represent a modern approach to medication delivery, designed to simplify oral drug delivery. The term “orodispersible” refers to a tablet formulated to rapidly dissolve or disperse in the mouth when placed on the tongue, typically within seconds to a few minutes, without the need for water. This allows medication to be easily swallowed with saliva, offering a convenient alternative to traditional pills.
What Orodispersible Means
Orodispersible tablets, often called orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs) or fast-dissolving tablets, are distinct from other oral forms. They are small, porous, and sometimes flavored for palatability. Unlike chewable tablets, which require chewing, orodispersible tablets disintegrate passively upon contact with saliva. They also differ from sublingual tablets, placed under the tongue for direct bloodstream absorption, and buccal tablets, held in the cheek pouch for absorption through its lining. While orodispersible tablets dissolve in the mouth, the medication is primarily swallowed with saliva and absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, not directly through the oral mucosa.
Why Orodispersible Tablets Are Used
Orodispersible tablets offer advantages for various patient populations, particularly those who experience difficulty swallowing conventional pills, known as dysphagia. This includes pediatric, geriatric, and those with certain neurological or psychiatric conditions. For these groups, the ease of administration without water can improve adherence to medication regimens, leading to better health outcomes.
Convenience extends beyond swallowing difficulties. They benefit individuals with nausea or vomiting, as they can be taken without risk of expulsion. Travelers and those needing medication on the go benefit from discreet administration without water. While primary absorption occurs after swallowing, rapid disintegration can contribute to a quicker onset of action due to faster gastric emptying and dissolution. This makes them suitable for conditions requiring rapid relief, such as pain or certain neurological disorders.
How Orodispersible Tablets Work
Rapid disintegration is achieved through specialized formulation techniques and specific ingredients. A primary component is the superdisintegrant, such as crospovidone, croscarmellose sodium, or sodium starch glycolate. These excipients rapidly absorb water from saliva, swelling and causing the tablet to break apart into smaller particles within seconds to a minute.
Beyond superdisintegrants, other formulation considerations contribute to performance. Bulking agents like mannitol or lactose provide structure and contribute to porosity. Taste-masking agents are often incorporated to improve palatability, especially for bitter medications, aiding patient acceptance. Manufacturing processes, including freeze-drying, spray-drying, or direct compression, are carefully controlled to ensure friability (how easily it crumbles) and optimal dissolution rate.
Administration and Important Considerations
Administration is straightforward. Place the tablet gently on the tongue; it dissolves almost immediately with saliva. Allow the tablet to disperse completely, then swallow the dissolved medication with saliva. Do not chew the tablet, as this can interfere with its rapid disintegration and alter the absorption profile.
Due to rapid disintegration and porous structure, orodispersible tablets are sensitive to moisture and require specific storage. They are commonly packaged in blister packs to protect from humidity and maintain integrity. Avoid large amounts of water immediately after the tablet dissolves, unless instructed by a healthcare professional, as the primary benefit is water-free administration. While taste-masking agents are used, some individuals may perceive a slight taste, depending on the medication. Adequate saliva production is beneficial for optimal disintegration.