Forums » News and Announcements
Understanding Hard Capsules
-
Understanding Hard Capsules
Hard capsules are a well-established dosage form that provides solutions to many of today’s drug delivery and nutraceutical formulation challenges. They are an oral dosage form for the delivery of life-saving drugs, minerals, vitamins, or other healthy ingredients via supplements. These convenient packages enable reliable dosing, portability, and high consumer compliance.Get more news about Hard Capsules,you can vist our website!Structure of Hard Capsules
Hard capsules are made of two cylindrical shells, each closed off at one end. The upper part, called the cap, has a slightly larger diameter than the lower part, called the body. These two parts fit together perfectly to form a hermetically closed unit.Manufacturing Process
Hard capsules are produced before filling with the active ingredient. In a secondary step, contract manufacturers or brand owners fill the active ingredient or drug in the empty gelatin capsules.Gelatin in Hard Capsules
The primary gelatin types used in capsules are typically from bovine or porcine raw materials. Depending on the fill, formulation, and on the target market group, manufacturers have flexibility in the raw material type, with some opting for a combination of porcine and bovine options. Bovine bone gelatin, for example, contributes to capsule firmness. Porcine options, on the other hand, offer plasticity and clarity characteristics.Dissolution of Hard Capsules
A standard gelatin hard capsule dissolves in the stomach, under normal conditions, within twenty to thirty minutes after swallowing. Depending on the application, different gelatin types or additional process steps can influence the dissolution process.Advantages of Hard Capsules
Like their softgel counterparts, gelatin hard capsules offer value to consumers and producers alike. These advantages are due largely to their main component, gelatin. They are ideal for powdered or granulated ingredients. These ingredients can be easily filled in the two-piece hard capsules.In conclusion, hard capsules are a versatile and effective method of drug delivery, offering numerous benefits for both manufacturers and consumers. As the world’s population ages and as we deal with health crises, health-minded consumers require dosage formats that are easy to use, easy to swallow, and portable.