Kapsuls

Kapsuls, commonly referred to as capsules in English, are a type of dosage form used to enclose a drug or other substance in a protective shell. They are designed for oral administration and are widely used for medicines and dietary supplements. The capsule shell can mask unpleasant tastes and odors and help protect sensitive ingredients from the environment or from stomach acids until they reach the intended location in the digestive tract.

There are two main types of kapsuls: hard-shell capsules, which consist of two interlocking pieces, and soft-shell capsules, which are formed in one piece and typically contain a liquid or oil-based fill. Shell materials vary and include gelatin, derived from animal collagen, as well as plant-based alternatives such as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) or pullulan for vegetarian or vegan products. Contents can be powders, granules, pellets, liquids, or semi-solid pastes, and capsules can be formulated to release their contents immediately or over an extended period.

Kapsuls offer several advantages, including precise dosing, ease of swallowing, and the ability to combine multiple ingredients into a single unit. They also enable taste masking and protection of fragile compounds. Special formulations exist for sustained-release, targeted delivery, or enhanced bioavailability, depending on shell choice and fill composition.

Manufacturing of kapsuls occurs in controlled environments under good manufacturing practice (GMP). Quality control tests assess weight uniformity, content uniformity, disintegration, dissolution, moisture content, and microbial limits. Regulatory oversight ensures safety, labeling accuracy, and appropriate use. For some diets, shell ingredients may present allergen or dietary considerations, prompting the use of alternative materials. Storage typically requires a cool, dry place to maintain stability.