Fast Dissolving Tablets (FDTs): A Novel Approach in the Management of Bronchial Asthma

Abstract:

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by airway constriction and obstruction, leading to respiratory difficulties. It causes severe bronchospasm, which leads to acute hypoxemia and cellular hypoxia of critical brain tissue. As an advanced method of systemic medication administration for bronchial asthma, Orally Disintegrating Tablets (ODTs) address the distinct therapeutic constraints of conventional solid oral dose forms, such as delayed onset of action, poor patient adherence, and severe dysphagia during severe exacerbations, as well as the complete absence of neuroprotective or agent compositions capable of mitigating tissue hypoxia in standard commercial formulations. While ODTs undergo rapid disintegration and dissolution in the oral cavity without requiring water, thereby facilitating accelerated systemic absorption and a rapid onset of therapeutic action, they are mainly designed to deliver long-term controller and sustaining medications rather than to replace specific fast-acting inhalers in severe, life-threatening asthma attacks. Rapid disintegration of ODTs can be achieved by adding hydrophilic superdisintegrants such as crospovidone, Sodium Starch Glycolate (SSG), croscarmellose sodium, and cross-linked carboxymethylcellulose sodium. Additionally, taste-masking agents and mucoadhesive polymers improve patient acceptance and efficacy. This review analyzes the current status of ODT formulations and therapeutic approaches in managing bronchial asthma, providing evidence-based methods to optimize adherence to dosing regimens and prevent sub-therapeutic plasma concentrations.