Formulation of a fast-dissolving oral film using gelatin and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose

Abstract

Background and objective: Orally disintegrating film is a solid dosage form made as an alternative for tablets for pediatric and geriatric patients who have difficulty in swallowing. These formulations are designed to dissolve in the mouth rapidly upon contact with saliva. This study aimed to prepare a thin oro-dispersible film base that can withstand handling in which a drug can be incorporated to provide a new dosage form. Methods: The solvent casting method was used to prepare the films, in which the ingredients were mixed, dissolved, and cast in a Petri dish. Then, they were left to dry in the oven overnight. Different concentrations of each of the two polymers alone and combined in different ratios were compared using different concentrations of plasticizer. Results: Successful, transparent films were prepared from gelatin and glycerin. A combination of 70% gelatin and 30% sodium carboxymethyl cellulose with glycerin formed an acceptable film having white color. The film forming capacity of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose alone was not good. All films were tearing and not well formed. All films that contain polyethylene glycol were brittle. Both superdisintegrants reduced the disintegration time for both films, but kyron was more effective than sodium starch glycolate. Conclusion: A successful oral film was prepared using different types of polymers, which is suitable for incorporating a potent drug to form a new dosage form that is easily portable and does not require water for swallowing.

Keywords

• fast dissolving oral film
• gelatin
• sodium carboxy methyl cellulose
• solvent casting method