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Capsules_Notes

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10 views

Capsules_Notes

Uploaded by

sajid ali
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Pharmaceutical Notes on Capsules

1. Introduction to Capsules

- Definition: Capsules are solid dosage forms in which the drug or active ingredient is enclosed

within a gelatin or polymeric shell.

- Purpose: They mask unpleasant tastes, provide accurate dosing, and improve patient compliance.

- Classification: Based on solubility:

* Hard gelatin capsules: Contain powdered or granulated ingredients.

* Soft gelatin capsules: Typically contain liquid or semi-liquid ingredients.

2. Types of Capsules

1. Hard Gelatin Capsules:

- Made of two parts: a cap and a body.

- Used for dry powders, granules, or pellets.

- Example: Amoxicillin capsules.

2. Soft Gelatin Capsules (Softgels):

- Made of a single shell of gelatin with plasticizers (e.g., glycerin).

- Used for liquids, oils, or suspensions.

- Example: Omega-3 fish oil capsules.

3. Vegetarian Capsules:

- Made of plant-based materials (e.g., hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, HPMC).

- Used for patients avoiding animal products.

4. Delayed-Release Capsules:
- Contain enteric coatings to resist stomach acid and release in the intestine.

- Example: Omeprazole DR capsules.

3. Ingredients of Capsules

1. Capsule Shell:

- Gelatin: Derived from animal collagen (commonly used).

- Alternatives: HPMC, starch, or pullulan (vegetarian capsules).

- Plasticizers: Glycerin or sorbitol (for flexibility in softgels).

2. Fill Materials:

- Active pharmaceutical ingredients (API): The therapeutic agent.

- Excipients: Enhance stability, flow, or bioavailability:

* Diluents: Lactose, microcrystalline cellulose.

* Lubricants: Magnesium stearate.

* Disintegrants: Sodium starch glycolate.

3. Colorants and Opacifiers:

- Used to distinguish different capsules or protect the contents from light.

4. Preservatives:

- E.g., parabens, to prevent microbial growth.

4. Preparation Methods of Capsules

A. For Hard Gelatin Capsules:

1. Preparation of Fill Material:

- Blend the API and excipients uniformly.

- Adjust particle size for flowability.


2. Filling Process:

- Separate the cap and body of the capsule.

- Fill the body with the desired amount of powder or granules using:

* Manual filling machine (small scale).

* Automatic capsule filling machine (large scale).

3. Capsule Sealing:

- Place the cap over the body and lock it.

- Optional sealing methods: Banding (applying gelatin band) or thermal welding.

4. Polishing:

- Clean the filled capsules to remove dust or excess material.

B. For Soft Gelatin Capsules:

1. Preparation of Gelatin Shell:

- Dissolve gelatin, plasticizers, and colorants in warm water.

- Cool and mold into a soft film.

2. Filling and Sealing:

- Place liquid or semi-solid fill between two gelatin sheets.

- Seal using heat and pressure.

3. Drying:

- Air dry or use drying tunnels to remove excess moisture.

5. Advantages of Capsules
1. Patient-Friendly:

- Easy to swallow.

- Mask unpleasant taste or odor of drugs.

2. Customizable:

- Can be tailored for immediate or controlled release.

- Versatile in handling various drug forms (liquid, powder, granules).

3. Efficient Drug Delivery:

- Faster dissolution compared to tablets.

- Improved bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs.

4. Convenience in Manufacturing:

- Easier to prepare compared to compressed tablets.

- Minimal use of binders or excipients.

5. Protection:

- Protect sensitive drugs from light, air, or moisture.

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