What are Tablets and Capsules?
In the
pharmaceutical industry, tablets and capsules are the most common forms of
oral dosage forms. Tablets are solid unit dosage forms containing medicinal substances with or without suitable diluents, while capsules are gelatin shells filled with medicine in powder, granule, liquid, or paste form.
How are Tablets Manufactured?
The manufacturing of tablets involves several processes, including
granulation, blending, and compression. Granulation helps in forming granules that improve flowability and compressibility. After blending with other excipients, the mixture is compressed into tablets using a tablet press.
What are the Advantages of Tablets?
Tablets offer numerous advantages, such as precise
dosage accuracy, stability, and ease of administration. They are also cost-effective to produce and can be formulated with various release profiles, such as immediate-release, extended-release, and
enteric-coated tablets.
What are the Limitations of Tablets?
Despite their advantages, tablets have limitations. Some patients, such as children and the elderly, may have difficulty swallowing them. Additionally, certain drugs that are sensitive to gastric pH or enzymes may not be suitable for tablet formulation.How are Capsules Manufactured?
Capsules are manufactured by filling gelatin or other polymer-based shells with active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The process involves preparing the
formulation, filling the capsules, and sealing them. Hard gelatin capsules are typically filled with powders or granules, while soft gelatin capsules are used for oils and active ingredients in liquid form.
What are the Advantages of Capsules?
Capsules offer several advantages, such as ease of swallowing, masking of unpleasant tastes and odors, and flexibility in
formulation development. They can also be designed for modified release of the active ingredient.
What are the Limitations of Capsules?
Capsules may have limitations, including higher manufacturing costs compared to tablets and potential stability issues with gelatin shells when exposed to high humidity or temperature. Additionally, certain drug formulations may not be suitable for encapsulation.How to Choose Between Tablets and Capsules?
The choice between tablets and capsules depends on several factors, including the
physicochemical properties of the drug, patient compliance, desired release characteristics, and cost considerations. In some cases, the decision may also be influenced by the intended use, such as over-the-counter or prescription medications.
What are the Innovations in Tablet and Capsule Technology?
The pharmaceutical industry continues to innovate in tablet and capsule technologies. Recent advancements include the development of
3D-printed tablets, which allow for personalized dosing and complex geometric designs. Additionally,
biodegradable polymers are being explored for capsule shells to enhance environmental sustainability.
Conclusion
Tablets and capsules remain essential in the delivery of pharmaceuticals due to their versatility and patient acceptance. Understanding their manufacturing processes, advantages, and limitations is crucial for optimizing
drug delivery systems and improving patient outcomes.
