Aqueous polymer dispersions are used in preparation of film coatings controlling drug release. Various excipients such as plasticizers, surfactants, antiadhesives and pigments are often added to polymer dispersions.
However, the additives often influence drug release. The review describes aqueous polymer dispersions and discusses main factors influencing the quality and proper function of film coatings such as the role of dispersion additives, coating conditions, film drying, curing and the coating surface.