Orally Disintegrating Films Containing Propolis: Properties and Release Profile

Mucoadhesive Enhancement of Gelatine by Tannic Acid Crosslinking for Buccal Application

This study aims to evaluate the impact of formulation parameters on tannic acid-crosslinked gelatine (GelTA) films, intended as a mucoadhesive matrix for extended buccal drug delivery. GelTA films were prepared using the solvent evaporation technique and screened based on their mucoadhesive and dissolution characteristics. The formulation variables included the source of gelatine (bovine and fish), tannic acid concentration, pH of the film-forming solutions, and the type and concentration of plasticisers. Subsequently, selected films underwent further characterisation (e.g., crosslinking density, stability) to elucidate their features as a drug delivery matrix. GelTA films exhibited a significantly improved dissolution time compared to the non-crosslinked film (BG-GLY20), while maintaining a substantial water uptake capacity conducive to a matrix system with extended action. The bovine GelTA film containing 5% w/w tannic acid and 20% w/w glycerine, prepared at pH 7 (BG-GLY20-7), exhibited a 1.6-fold increase in mucoadhesivity and an extended dissolution time of up to 6 h compared to BG-GLY20 (control), along with superior antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. However, stability studies indicate the need for an oxygen-free environment for film storage. In conclusion, GelTA films show promise as a buccal film matrix, offering extended dissolution times, substantial water uptake, and enhanced adhesive strength.

Characterization of physicochemical properties of mung bean protein isolate and κ-carrageenan hydrogel as a delivery system for propolis extract

A wide range of protein and polysaccharide structures have been applied for the encapsulation of bioactive compounds. In this research, a hydrogel was prepared using mung bean protein isolate and κ-carrageenan as a copolymer. The obtained hydrogel was used for encapsulating propolis at 1 % and 3 % (w/v). The rheological properties and the elasticity of the hydrogel samples with different percentages of propolis was investigated to determine resilience of the hydrogel. The textural analysis illustrated that propolis encapsulation does not change the hydrogel's chewiness, adhesiveness, and hardness. Fluorescence spectroscopy, FTIR, and SDS-PAGE techniques were used to determine the interactions between κ-carrageenan and mung bean protein isolate. The results suggested that electrostatic interactions and covalent bindings are responsible for gel preparation. Hydrophobic interactions contributed to propolis encapsulation. The quenching of aromatic amino acid residue and the clear propolis peak observed in fluorescence spectroscopy represented the role of hydrophobic interactions in encapsulation and gel formation. The water holding capacity (WHC) of >99 % and syneresis of <0.03 % of κ-carrageenan and mung bean protein isolate hydrogel represented an efficient structure of the hydrogel. The peak shifts of κ-carrageenan and mung bean protein isolates illustrated in the FTIR spectra were in line with SDS-PAGE results and fluorescence spectroscopy. The significantly increased encapsulation efficiency of >99 %, release rate of >50 %, and antioxidant activity of propolis encapsulated in κ-carrageenan and mung bean protein isolate suggested that the κ-carrageenan and mung bean protein isolate hydrogel is a potential delivery system and carrier for hydrophobic bioactive compounds, especially propolis.

Orodispersible Dosage Forms with Rhinacanthin-Rich Extract as a Convenient Formulation Dedicated to Pediatric Patients

Rhinacanthins, derived from Rhinacanthus nasutus, widely used in traditional medicine, exhibit antifungal, anticancer, antiviral, antibacterial, and antiplatelet aggregation effects. Recently, their anti-diabetic activity was confirmed, which makes them an interesting natural alternative in the therapy of the early stage of diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the possibility of formulating orodispersible tablets (ODTs) and orodispersible films (ODFs) containing rhinacanthin-rich extract (RRE). Tablets with 50 mg or 100 mg of RRE were produced by direct compression. ODFs were manufactured by casting of Lycoat RS 720 or polyvinyl alcohol solution with RRE and additional excipients. The mechanical properties and disintegration times of the prepared formulations were studied. The effectiveness of taste masking was analyzed with an electronic tongue system. Six months simplified stability studies were performed in conditions complying to ICH guidelines. Appropriate friability of ODTs was achieved, despite low tensile strength (0.45-0.62 MPa). All prepared ODFs successfully met the acceptance criteria regarding Young's modulus, tensile strength, and elongation at break. The observed variations in their mechanical properties were dependent on the type and quantity of polymers and plasticizers used. Disintegration time of ODTs ranged from 38.7 s to 54.2 s, while for ODFs from 24.2 to 40 s in the pharmacopoeial apparatus. Analyses made with the electronic tongue showed the significant taste-masking effect in both formulations. The addition of sucralose as a sweetener and menthol with mint flavor as a taste-masking agent was sufficient to mask an RRE's taste in the case of ODTs and ODFs. Stability studies of ODTs packed in the PVC/Alu blisters showed a decrease in the RRE content below 90% after 6 months. However, ODFs with PVA were physicochemically stable for 6 months while being stored in Alu/Alu sachets. Our study proved for the first time the possibility of the formulation of orodispersible dosage forms with RRE, characterized by good mechanical properties, disintegration time, and appropriate taste masking.

Oral Films Printed with Green Propolis Ethanolic Extract

Oral film (OF) research has intensified due to the effortless administration and advantages related to absorption in systemic circulation. Chitosan is one of the polymers widely used in the production of OFs; however, studies evaluating the maintenance of the active principles' activity are incipient. Propolis has been widely used as an active compound due to its different actions. Printing techniques to incorporate propolis in OFs prove to be efficient. The objective of the present study is to develop and characterize oral films based on chitosan and propolis using printing techniques and to evaluate the main activities of the extract incorporated into the polymeric matrix. The OFs were characterized in relation to the structure using scanning and atomic force electron microscopy; the mechanical properties, disintegration time, wettability, and stability of antioxidant activity were evaluated. The ethanolic extract of green propolis (GPEE) concentration influenced the properties of the OFs. The stability (phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity) was reduced in the first 20 days, and after this period, it remained constant.

Orodispersible Films: Current Innovations and Emerging Trends

Orodispersible films (ODFs) are thin, mechanically strong, and flexible polymeric films that are designed to dissolve or disintegrate rapidly in the oral cavity for local and/or systemic drug delivery. This review examines various aspects of ODFs and their potential as a drug delivery system. Recent advancements, including the detailed exploration of formulation components, such as polymers and plasticizers, are briefed. The review highlights the versatility of preparation methods, particularly the solvent-casting production process, and novel 3D printing techniques that bring inherent flexibility. Three-dimensional printing technology not only diversifies active compounds but also enables a multilayer approach, effectively segregating incompatible drugs. The integration of nanoparticles into ODF formulations marks a significant breakthrough, thus enhancing the efficiency of oral drug delivery and broadening the scope of the drugs amenable to this route. This review also sheds light on the diverse in vitro evaluation methods utilized to characterize ODFs, ongoing clinical trials, approved marketed products, and recent patents, providing a comprehensive outlook of the evolving landscape of orodispersible drug delivery. Current patient-centric approaches involve developing ODFs with patient-friendly attributes, such as improved taste masking, ease of administration, and enhanced patient compliance, along with the personalization of ODF formulations to meet individual patient needs. Investigating novel functional excipients with the potential to enhance the permeation of high-molecular-weight polar drugs, fragile proteins, and oligonucleotides is crucial for rapid progress in the advancing domain of orodispersible drug delivery.

Oral disintegration films: applications and production methods

The use of orally disintegrating films (ODF) as a vehicle for the release of active compounds has drawn attention due to the advantages such as ease of swallowing, precise dosage, low thickness, flexibility, greater comfort and acceptability by the patient in relation to oral tablets, for do not require water for administration, it is ideal for people with difficulty in swallowing. In this review, recent advances in ODFs, their applications and production methods will be presented. The production of ODFs uses polymers, plasticizers and active compounds. Among the compounds added to the film that can affect its properties, the polymer used has a strong influence on the disintegration time and on the controlled release of active principles. Polymers used for the production of oral films must be non-toxic, have good wettability and spreadability, and may be of synthetic or natural origin. Regarding the methods used in the production of ODFs, those currently used are solvent evaporation and hot extrusion. However, one of the great challenges for the production of oral films is the scale up, from laboratory to industrial scale, as factors such as heating, mixing speed and temperatures can lead to changes in film quality. Recently, ODFs have been developed as carriers of natural compounds such as vitamins, phenolic compounds, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. Thus, it was found that orally disintegrating films are an alternative for the release of active compounds, different from those already existing, which justifies the growing interest in this type of film.

Propolis Controlled Delivery Systems for Oral Therapeutics in Dental Medicine: A Systematic Review

This systematic review synthesizes the existing evidence in the literature regarding the association of propolis with controlled delivery systems (DDSs) and its potential therapeutic action in dental medicine. Two independent reviewers performed a literature search up to 1 June 2023 in five databases: PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Embase, to identify the eligible studies. Clinical, in situ, and in vitro studies that investigated the incorporation of propolis as the main agent in DDSs for dental medicine were included in this study. Review articles, clinical cases, theses, dissertations, conference abstracts, and studies that had no application in dentistry were excluded. A total of 2019 records were initially identified. After carefully examining 21 full-text articles, 12 in vitro studies, 4 clinical, 1 animal model, and 3 in vivo and in vitro studies were included (n = 21). Relevant data were extracted from the included studies and analyzed qualitatively. The use of propolis has been reported in cariology, endodontics, periodontics, stomatology, and dental implants. Propolis has shown non-cytotoxic, osteoinductive, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, propolis can be released from DDS for prolonged periods, presenting biocompatibility, safety, and potential advantage for applications in dental medicine.

Natural Products for the Prevention and Treatment of Oral Mucositis-A Review

Cancer, a major world public health problem, is associated with chemotherapy treatments whose administration leads to secondary concerns, such as oral mucositis (OM). The OM disorder is characterized by the presence of ulcers in the oral mucosa that cause pain, bleeding, and difficulty in ingesting fluids and solids, or speaking. Bioactive compounds from natural sources have arisen as an effective approach for OM. This review aims to summarize the new potential application of different natural products in the prevention and treatment of OM in comparison to conventional ones, also providing a deep insight into the most recent clinical studies. Natural products, such as Aloe vera, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Camellia sinensis, Calendula officinalis, or honeybee crops, constitute examples of sources of bioactive compounds with pharmacological interest due to their well-reported activities (e.g., antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, or wound healing). These activities are associated with the bioactive compounds present in their matrix (such as flavonoids), which are associated with in vivo biological activities and minimal or absent toxicity. Finally, encapsulation has arisen as a future opportunity to preserve the chemical stability and the drug bioa vailability of bioactive compounds and, most importantly, to improve the buccal retention period and the therapeutic effects.

Catechin/β-cyclodextrin complex modulates physicochemical properties of pre-gelatinized starch-based orally disintegrating films

The study aimed to develop pre-gelatinized starch-based orally disintegrating films (ODFs) containing catechin/β-cyclodextrin (CAT/β-CD) complex and to evaluate the influence of the complex on the physicochemical properties of the ODFs. SEM images showed that a compacter and more homogeneous ODFs were formed due to interactions between starch matrix and CAT/β-CD. FTIR spectra demonstrated that the interactions between starches or starch and CAT/β-CD were enhanced by hydrogen bonds. Thermal stability of ODFs was improved by incorporating CAT/β-CD, its peak decomposition temperature was enhanced from 310.74 to 321.83 °C. Tensile strength was increased from 11.597 ± 0.153 to 22.172 ± 0.752 MPa, while elongation at break decreased by from 11.233% ± 1.079% to 3.633% ± 0.058%. The prepared ODFs have an acceptable in vitro disintegration time, which were between 9.03 ± 0.79 s and 42.23 ± 1.76 s. Antimicrobial test showed that ODFs incorporating CAT/β-CD inhibited the growth of S. aureus and S. mutans successfully. The limited release of CAT molecules from the ODFs was also found. In addition, the ODFs have excellent antioxidant capacity. Its antioxidant activity remained at around 70% after 28 days of storage. The study indicated that the combination of ODFs and β-CD complex have a high potential for the delivery of natural active ingredients.

Biocompatible and Biomaterials Application in Drug Delivery System in Oral Cavity

Biomaterials applications have rapidly expanded into different fields of sciences. One of the important fields of using biomaterials is dentistry, which can facilitate implantation, surgery, and treatment of oral diseases such as peri-implantitis, periodontitis, and other dental problems. Drug delivery systems based on biocompatible materials play a vital role in the release of drugs into aim tissues of the oral cavity with minimum side effects. Therefore, scientists have studied various delivery systems to improve the efficacy and acceptability of therapeutic approaches in dental problems and oral diseases. Also, biomaterials could be utilized as carriers in biocompatible drug delivery systems. For instance, natural polymeric substances, such as gelatin, chitosan, calcium phosphate, alginate, and xanthan gum are used to prepare different forms of delivery systems. In addition, some alloys are conducted in drug complexes for the better in transportation. Delivery systems based on biomaterials are provided with different strategies, although individual biomaterial has advantages and disadvantages which have a significant influence on transportation of complex such as solubility in physiological environments or distribution in tissues. Biomaterials have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects and prolonged time contact and even enhance antibiotic activities in oral infections. Moreover, these biomaterials are commonly prepared in some forms such as particulate complex, fibers, microspheres, gels, hydrogels, and injectable systems. In this review, we examined the application of biocompatible materials in drug delivery systems of oral and dental diseases or problems.

A review: Gelatine as a bioadhesive material for medical and pharmaceutical applications

Bioadhesive polymers offer versatility to medical and pharmaceutical inventions. The incorporation of such materials to conventional dosage forms or medical devices may confer or improve the adhesivity of the bioadhesive systems, subsequently prolonging their residence time at the site of absorption or action and providing sustained release of actives with improved bioavailability and therapeutic outcomes. For decades, much focus has been put on scientific works to replace synthetic polymers with biopolymers with desirable functional properties. Gelatine has been considered one of the most promising biopolymers. Despite its biodegradability, biocompatibility and unique biological properties, gelatine exhibits poor mechanical and adhesive properties, limiting its end-use applications. The chemical modification and blending of gelatine with other biomaterials are strategies proposed to improve its bioadhesivity. Here we discuss the classical approaches involving a variety of polymer blends and composite systems containing gelatine, and gelatine modifications via thiolation, methacrylation, catechol conjugation, amination and other newly devised strategies. We highlight several of the latest studies on these strategies and their relevant findings.

Fast Dissolving/Disintegrating Dosage Forms of Natural Active Compounds and Alternative Medicines

Fast Dissolving/Disintegrating Dosage Forms (FDDFs) are a group of dosage forms which dissolve or disintegrate quickly, leading to fast distribution of active ingredients at the site of administration; thereby providing ease of oral ingestion of solid unit dosage forms and have the potential to enhance transmucosal absorption. With time, the use of FDDFs in alternative systems has significantly increased. Homeopathic systems and traditional Chinese medicine have embraced FDDFs for the delivery of active compounds. Most of the patents in this area are from China or by the Chinese innovators. In Europe and US, FDDFs have been extensively studied for the delivery of natural active compounds. It was fascinating to know that some new dosage forms and new routes of delivering active compounds are also making their way to the family of FDDFs. The dose of active compound, size of dosage forms, standardization of extracts, polyherbal mixtures, stability of active compounds, safety, efficacy and pharmacokinetics are challenging issues for developing FDDF herbal formulations or phytopharmaceuticals.

A review on orally disintegrating films (ODFs) made from natural polymers such as pullulan, maltodextrin, starch, and others

In recent years, orally disintegrating films (ODFs) have been studied as alternative ways for drug administration. They can easily be applied into the mouth and quickly disintegrate, releasing the drug with no need of water ingestion and enabling absorption through the oral mucosa. The ODFs matrices are typically composed of hydrophilic polymers, in which the natural polymers are highlighted since they are polymers extracted from natural sources, non-toxic, biocompatible, biodegradable, and have favorable properties for this application. Besides that, natural polymers such as polysaccharides and proteins can be applied either alone or blended with other synthetic, semi-synthetic, or natural polymers to achieve better mechanical and mucoadhesive properties and fast disintegration. In this review, we analyzed ODFs developed using natural polymers or blends involving natural polymers, such as maltodextrin, pullulan, starch, gelatin, collagen, alginate, chitosan, pectin, and others, to overview the recent publications and discuss how natural polymers can influence ODFs properties.

A donepezil/cyclodextrin complexation orodispersible film: Effect of cyclodextrin on taste-masking based on dynamic process and in vivo drug absorption

The aim of this study was to develop a palatable donepezil (DP) orodispersible film (ODF) to facilitate the swallowing process and investigate the effect of cyclodextrin on taste-masking based on dynamic process and in vivo drug absorption. Complexation of DP with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) was applied to mask the bitter taste then the prepared complexes were incorporated into ODF using solvent casting method. The taste-masking efficiency was evaluated by e-tongue; meanwhile the pharmacokinetic behavior of DP/HP-β-CD ODF was investigated by in vivo study. Results showed the optimized film was more palatable than donepezil hydrochloride (DH) film and was bioequivalent with DH. The molecular mechanism was revealed by phase solubility study, Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR), Differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and molecular modeling. Taste-masking was attributed to the formation of DP/HP-β-CD which was due to moderate interaction between DP and HP-β-CD. The stability of DP/HP-β-CD was decreased because of the acid environment in stomach, which facilitated the absorption of DP. These results extended our understanding about the application of cyclodextrin complexation and provided guidance for the design of ODF especially for drugs with disgusting taste.