What is an oral strip?

An oral strip—often termed an orodispersible film (ODF) or oral thin film (OTF)—is an ultra-thin, edible polymer film that dissolves/disintegrates on the tongue or buccal mucosa to release actives. ODFs are recognized as a dosage form in the European Pharmacopoeia.

Why use them? Key benefits

• Water-free, swallow-friendly administration; portable and discreet, helpful for pediatrics, geriatrics, and anyone with dysphagia.
• Potentially rapid onset & transmucosal uptake (drug-dependent), which may lessen first-pass effects.
• Flexible dosing & better adherence, as films can be tailored in size/strength. These advantages are well documented in reviews.

What are they made of? What do they look like?

Typical thickness is about 10–100 μm (often ≤100 μm) with 2–8 cm² surface area. Common film formers include HPMC, PVA, and pullulan, plus plasticizers (e.g., glycerol, PEG) and sweeteners/flavors for palatability.

How are they manufactured?

Main processes are solvent casting and hot-melt extrusion; printing/3D-printing approaches are emerging for personalized dosing. Quality attributes include mechanical strength, content uniformity, disintegration/dissolution, residual solvents, and moisture.

Real-world examples

• Oral care/breath freshening: Listerine® PocketPaks (non-drug) are classic oral care strips.
• Prescription films (use only under medical supervision):
  • Zuplenz® (ondansetron) oral soluble film for N/V indications.
  • Onsolis® (fentanyl) buccal soluble film for breakthrough cancer pain in opioid-tolerant adults.
  • Suboxone® (buprenorphine/naloxone) sublingual film for opioid use disorder maintenance.

Limitations & caveats

• Limited drug load per strip, compared with tablets.
• Moisture sensitivity, so robust barrier packaging and proper storage are essential.
• Taste/irritation issues for certain actives; special populations require clinician guidance—points discussed across reviews and studies.

Practical tips (not medical advice)

Buy through reputable channels; follow label directions; keep pouches sealed and dry; for medicinal films, follow your prescriber’s instructions.