Fast disintegrating tablets: An updated review on formulation and evaluation

Abstract

Fast Disintegrating Tablets (FDTs), also referred to as Orally Disintegrating Tablets (ODTs) or Mouth-Dissolving Tablets (MDTs), are solid dosage forms designed to disintegrate rapidly in the oral cavity without the need for water. These tablets offer significant advantages in patient compliance, especially for pediatric, geriatric, and dysphagic populations, and provide faster onset of action compared to conventional tablets. This review presents an updated overview of the formulation strategies, technological approaches, evaluation parameters, and recent advancements in FDT development.

Different formulation techniques—including direct compression, freeze-drying, sublimation, spray drying, molding, mass extrusion, and patented processes—have enabled the production of robust, fast-acting tablets with superior organoleptic properties. The selection and mechanism of superdisintegrants, such as Crospovidone, Croscarmellose Sodium, Sodium Starch Glycolate, Kyron T-314, and β-Cyclodextrin, play a critical role in achieving rapid disintegration and optimal mechanical strength. Taste-masking approaches, encompassing polymer coating, drug–resin complexes, microencapsulation, and cyclodextrin inclusion complexes, further enhance patient acceptability.

Key evaluation parameters—including hardness, friability, drug content, wetting time, disintegration time, and dissolution profile—are essential to assess product quality and performance. Recent innovations such as 3D-printed FDTs, nanoparticle-loaded systems, and QbD-driven optimization have advanced the field significantly. This review consolidates current knowledge and provides insights into emerging trends, highlighting the potential of FDTs as a versatile and patient-friendly dosage form in modern pharmaceutical therapy.