What is the meaning of Capsules?
Capsules are a pharmaceutical dosage form that contains medication in a gelatin or vegetarian-based shell. They are made to be swallowed and dissolve in the gastrointestinal tract. Capsules have various forms, including hard gelatin capsules and soft gelatin capsules, which contain powder, liquid, or oil-based drugs.
The shell provides a protective barrier for the enclosed medication, shielding it from moisture, light, and air, which helps maintain its stability and potency. Hard gelatin capsules are typically used for delivering solid powder formulations, while soft gelatin capsules are suitable for liquid or oil-based drugs. Capsules also offer benefits such as precise dosing, easy identification through color and markings, and the ability to mask unpleasant tastes or odors.
In addition to their protective properties and ease of administration, capsule medications offer flexibility in terms of customization and formulation options. The shell can be tailored to release the medication at specific locations in the gastrointestinal tract, allowing for targeted drug delivery. This is advantageous for treatments that may cause irritation or have optimal absorption requirements. Capsules can also be designed in controlled release, extended release, or enteric-coated formulations, enabling a more sustained and controlled release of the drugs in the body.