10 Questions
Capsules are solid dosage forms in which one or more medicinal or inert substances are enclosed within a small ______ shells.
gelatin
The weight capacity for a given capsule size is highly dependent on the density of the ______.
powder
The ______ of capsule shells is Titanium dioxide.
opaquants
Capsules should be stored in ______ containers that maintain a constant, adequate relative humidity.
tight
Lack of moisture in capsules shells causes the shell to become hard and ______.
brittle
Selecting a capsule size for encapsulating a compounded ______
powder
A ______ may be needed in the following situations:
diluent
Lactose monohydrate (non-spray-dried variety) and cornstarch are two ______ that work well for improving packing
diluents
When using a capsule-filling machine, an ______ diluent may be needed to improve the flow of the powder
inert
Using a spatula, arrange the powder into a compact, flat ______ bed of uniform thickness
powder
Study Notes
Capsules
- Capsules are solid dosage forms that enclose one or more medicinal or inert substances within a small gelatin shell.
- Gelatin is the usual material used to form capsules, but starch or other suitable substances can also be used.
Hard Shell Capsules
- Available in sizes from 000 (largest) to 5 (smallest).
- Larger sizes (e.g., bolus capsules) are used for veterinary purposes in large animals.
- Size 00 is the largest capsule size used orally for humans, while size 000 is sometimes used for rectal or vaginal use.
- Capsules should be moistened with lubricating jelly or water before insertion.
Capsule Properties
- The weight capacity of a capsule size depends on the density of the powder.
- Opaque capsule shells contain titanium dioxide, which is useful for concealing the powder contents, especially for unappealing powders or blind studies.
- Capsule shells may also contain dispersing agents, hardening agents (e.g., sucrose), or preservatives.
Effect of Moisture on Capsules
- Lack of moisture in capsule shells causes them to become hard and brittle, affecting dissolution and bioavailability.
- Proper storage requires tight containers that maintain a constant, adequate relative humidity.
Selecting a Capsule Size
- Calculate the weight of the powder to be filled into each capsule, including the weight of any needed diluent.
- A diluent may be needed in certain situations, such as when the amount of powder per capsule is less than the minimum weightable quantity (MWQ) for the balance being used.
Adding Diluents
- Lactose monohydrate (non-spray-dried variety) and cornstarch are effective diluents for improving the ease of packing and flow of powders.
- Diluents may be added to adjust the powder volume to fit a larger capsule size or to improve the flow of powder when using a capsule-filling machine.
Hand Filling Capsules
- Prepare the powder using techniques and procedures for particle size reduction and blending.
- Place the powder mixture on an ointment slab or pad, and arrange it into a compact, flat powder bed of uniform thickness using a spatula.
This quiz covers the basics of capsules, including their composition, and hard shell capsules, including their sizes and uses.
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