Current Pharmaceutical Design - Volume 31, Issue 5, 2025

Oral thin films are changing the way drugs are delivered, making drug administration more convenient and patient-friendly. This review delves into the fascinating possibilities of natural polymers in thin film design. We consider the benefits of biocompatible polymers produced from chitosan, gelatin, and pullulan. Their intrinsic biodegradability and safety make them excellent for use with a wide range of patients. Additionally, the research investigates novel strategies for creating these distinctive drug delivery systems. We look beyond standard solvent casting techniques, hot melt extrusion methods, rolling methods, etc. These technologies provide exact control over film qualities, allowing for tailored medication delivery and increased patient compliance. This review seeks to bridge the gap between natural polymers and cutting-edge fabrication processes. By investigating this combination, we pave the road for the development of next-generation oral thin films that are more efficacious, patient-acceptable, and environmentally-friendly.

The management of neurological disorders is very challenging due to the presence of the blood- brain barrier (BBB) that prevents the entry of drugs into the central nervous system (CNS). The advancement of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) provides a novel direction for the treatment of neurological disorders. However, there is a significant concern regarding the toxic effects of metal NPs on biological tissues like the brain. The green synthesis strategy offers a superior alternative to the traditional methods for the development of metallic NPs. Notable metal and metal oxide NPs can be produced using various bio-reductants derived from natural sources such as plant tissues, fungi, bacteria, yeast, and alga. These biological agents play double roles as they expedite the reduction process and act as capping and stabilizing agents. In this paper, we discuss the major neurological disorders and the physical barriers limiting the transport of therapeutics to the CNS. Moreover, a special focus is given to the unique features of green synthesized metallic NPs for therapeutic purposes in various neurological disorders. The insights provided will guide future research toward better outcomes and facilitate the development of innovative treatments for neurological disorders.

The oral route of drug administration is often preferred by patients and healthcare providers due to its convenience, ease of use, non-invasiveness, and patient acceptance. However, traditional oral dosage forms have several limitations, including low bioavailability, limited drug loading capacity, and stability and storage issues, particularly with solutions and suspensions. Over the years, researchers have dedicated considerable effort to developing novel oral drug delivery systems to overcome these limitations. This review discusses various challenges associated with oral drug delivery systems, including biological, pharmaceutical, and physicochemical barriers. It also explores common delivery approaches, such as gastroretentive drug delivery, small intestine drug delivery, and colon-targeting drug delivery systems. Additionally, numerous strategies aimed at improving oral drug delivery efficiency are reviewed, including solid dispersion, absorption enhancers, lipid-based formulations, nanoparticles, polymer-based nanocarriers, liposomal formulations, microencapsulation, and micellar formulations. Furthermore, innovative approaches like orally disintegrating tablets (ODT), orally disintegrating films (ODF), layered tablets, micro particulates, self-nano emulsifying formulations (SNEF), and controlled release dosage forms are explored for their potential in enhancing oral drug delivery efficiency and promoting patients’ compliance. Overall, this review highlights significant progress in addressing challenges in the pharmaceutical industry and clinical settings, offering novel approaches for the development of effective oral drug delivery systems.