Science Behind Fast Dissolving Melts or ODTs
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Explore the cutting-edge science and formulation secrets behind their rapid dissolution.
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- Science Behind Fast Dissolving Melts or ODTs
Fast-dissolving melts, or oral disintegrating tablets (OTD), as they are termed in science, have emerged as a convenient solution to various challenges consumers face in an increasingly fast-paced world. In addition, they can offer multiple benefits beyond convenience to some patients.
Rapidly dissolving tablets were first developed in the 1970s as an alternative for children and adult patients who had difficulty swallowing oral tablets, capsules and liquids.
What are fast-dissolving melts?
OTDs are a type of medication delivered within the mouth, like sublingual and buccal medications. However, there are differences between the three forms.
ODTs rapidly dissolve in saliva, typically on the tongue, within seconds to minutes, with no chewing or water required. In contrast, sublingual tablets dissolve under the tongue, while buccal formulations dissolve between the gum and cheek.
ODTs are also different in terms of their absorption site. Sublingual and buccal tablets are absorbed directly through the oral mucosa. Meanwhile, ODTs, once disintegrated, leave an easy-to-swallow residue and the medication will be absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract according to the Department for Health and Ageing, Government of South Australia.
What are the benefits of fast-dissolving melts?
Comfortable consumption
It may be helpful for people who have challenges swallowing traditional solid forms of supplements, such as tablets.
Being able to take their vitamins by a method they are more comfortable with could also help them stick to their regimen.
They may suit people who dislike the experience of swallowing tablets. It may also make it easier for those who need to take multiple and different medications.
Some may even be flavoured, which adds to their greater appeal. It's also reported that they have an enhanced mouth feel and can mask taste to improve the taste of bitter medications.
Portability and convenience
No water is required, and OTDs can just be dissolved in the mouth and swallowed. This makes them even more convenient than standard tablets, for example, while travelling or where there may not be water readily available.Accurate dosing
According to an article in the Intelligent Pharmacy Journal, fast-dissolving dosage forms offer effective dosing when compared to liquid dosage forms.Addressing pill fatigue
Adherence to medication is important for maintaining health, especially if your doctor has prescribed medication or supplements. However, it is quite common for Australians not to stick to their medication regimen.
Alarmingly, according to the Digital Health Cooperative Research Centre, approximately 50% of patients do not take medication as prescribed.
According to the Blackmores Health Institute, 67% are taking prescription medicines. Additionally, 47% use dietary supplements to further support their health, and among those aged 75 and over, two-thirds manage five or more medications alongside complementary therapies.
This increasing pill burden can contribute to a feeling of 'pill fatigue', a growing challenge that impacts patient compliance and long-term adherence.
As the American Medical Association reports, a patient with several different medicines prescribed with higher dosing frequency has a higher chance of being nonadherent.
Although OTDs may not reduce the number of medicines or supplements a patient needs to take, they can offer a quicker, more convenient, and possibly more comfortable experience of taking them, particularly for patients with swallowing difficulties.
As always, check with your GP before commencing any medications, as they can assess your suitability against your current health, medications, and medical history. In addition, consult with your pharmacist regarding dosage, safe use and storage.
REFERENCES
Dey P, Maiti S. Orodispersible tablets: A new trend in drug delivery. J Nat Sci Biol Med. 2010 Jul;1(1):2-5. doi: 10.4103/0976-9668.71663. PMID: 22096326; PMCID: PMC3217286.
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