ABSTRACT
Capsules are solid dosage forms in which the drug substance is enclosed within either a hard or soft soluble shell. The shells generally are formed from gelatin. The capsule may be regarded as a “container” drug-delivery system that provides a tasteless/odorless dosage form without the need for a secondary coating step, as may be required for tablets. Swallowing is easy for most patients, since the shell is smooth and hydrates in the mouth, and the capsule often tends to float upon swallowing in the liquid taken with it. Their availability in a wide variety of colors makes capsules aesthetically pleasing. There are numerous additional advantages to capsules as a dosage form, depending on the type of capsule employed.
