A capsule is characterized as a solid dosage form that contains medicinal agents in the form of ‘powder’, ‘pellets’, ‘liquid pastes’, or ‘tablets’ enclosed within a hard or soft soluble shell.
The shells are typically made from gelatine. Capsules are considered an oral drug delivery system that offers a dosage form that is nearly tasteless and odorless.
Advantages of Capsules:
- Taste and Odor Masking
- Aesthetic pleasant
- Dose accuracy
- Easy to identify
- Convenient to carry
- Low cost of packaging and transportation
Types of Capsules:
Capsules are typically classified into two categories based on the nature of the shell
- Hard Gelatine Capsules
- Soft Gelatine Capsules
Hard Gelatine Capsule:
These are generally used for dry, powdered ingredients, pellets and or tablets
- The empty capsules (shells) are supplied as loosely closed units i.e. cap overlapping on body to the pharmaceutical manufacturer.
- Before use, the two parts are separated and the capsule is filled with active ingredient along with excipients either by placing a compressed slug of powder or loose powder in the body and the cap is aligned, followed by pressing.
Soft Gelatine Capsule:
Mainly used for pates, oils and or active ingredients that are dissolved or suspended in oil