Buccal films as a platform for systematic and local drug delivery: An updated review

Buccal drug delivery has emerged as one of the most promising and patient-friendly approaches for systemic and local therapy due to its ability to bypass first‑pass metabolism, offer rapid absorption, and improve bioavailability. The oral mucosa, consisting of keratinized and non‑keratinized epithelium, provides a unique environment for mucoadhesive formulations, making it ideal for buccal films. These films utilize polymers, plasticizers, penetration enhancers, and other excipients to achieve an optimal balance between mechanical strength, adhesive properties, and drug release characteristics. Compared with traditional dosage forms, buccal films offer numerous benefits, such as enhanced patient compliance, quick disintegration, and suitability for pediatric and geriatric patients. However, the formulation and manufacture of buccal films present significant challenges, including moisture sensitivity, limited surface area for drug absorption, and constraints on the quantity of active pharmaceutical ingredients. To overcome these, advances in polymer technology, plasticizers, and mucoadhesion strategies have enabled the design of sophisticated delivery platforms, making buccal films highly attractive for the administration of peptides, proteins, and other therapeutic agents. This review provides an in-depth examination of the characteristics of the oral cavity, the design and evaluation of buccal films, their manufacturing methods, and critical evaluation parameters. Additionally, it explores future prospects for extending the application of buccal films to a wider range of therapeutic areas, highlighting their role as a viable and innovative delivery platform for the next generation of pharmaceuticals.