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Abstract

Oral administration through the digestive tract is still the most common means by which drugs are given, as it is simple and cheap. However, it has some biopharmaceutical limitations in general, such as varying gastrointestinal conditions, enzymatic degradation, and extensive hepatic first-pass metabolism, which decrease drug stability and bioavailability To address these challenges, drug delivery through the oral mucosa (OMDD) has emerged as a potential non-invasive option. The buccal mucosa is well supplied with blood, provides a relatively mild environment, and avoids hepatic first-pass metabolism, thereby resulting in a faster onset of action and improved bioavailability. Mucoadhesive buccal films have been the most important choice of many due to their wide-ranging properties like dosing accuracy, flexibility, and patient compliance among different OMDD technologies. These films bind to the mucosal surface, hence prolonging the contact time and facilitating uptake. This review covers in detail the structure and function of the buccal mucosa, the main components of the formulation, and modern fabrication techniques such as solvent casting, hot-melt extrusion, electrospinning, and 3D printing. Besides, the evaluation criteria, like thickness, mucoadhesion, and stability, are also addressed. Limited drug loading, saliva-induced washout, etc. are some of the issues that still exist. However, recent technological breakthroughs keep on improving buccal films as efficient, patient-friendly devices for local and systemic drug delivery.

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