Sublingual and buccal films

Sublingual films are a dosage form designed to deliver an active ingredient through the oral mucosa. They are typically placed under the tongue. Films that adhere to the mucosal surface of the cheek are known as buccal films.

Sublingual and buccal films enable rapid absorption of the active ingredient through the oral mucosa, followed by its entry into the systemic circulation, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract. This route of administration can avoid or substantially reduce the impact of first-pass metabolism in the liver and, in some cases, may provide higher bioavailability of the active ingredient and a faster onset of therapeutic effect.

Sublingual and buccal films are particularly promising for medicines where rapid delivery of the active ingredient into the systemic circulation is important. They may be used in the treatment of various conditions, including certain neurological and cardiovascular disorders, pain syndromes, spasms, and allergic reactions.