Soft Capsules

Question 1

what does a soft capsule consist of

Answer 1

liquid or semisolid matrix hermetically sealed inside a one piece flexible gelatin shell

Question 2

what are softcapsules sometimes referred to as

Answer 2

softgel

Question 3

what does a capsule shell comprise of

Answer 3

gelatin
plasticiser
water
preservatives
dyes

Question 4

give 2 examples of a plasticiser

Answer 4

glycerol or propylene glycol

Question 5

describe a softgel composition

Answer 5

geletin 35-40
plasticizer 15 -25
water ~40
dye 
opacifier if needed
flavourings

Question 6

what are 4 applications of softgels

Answer 6

oral dosage form
chewable softgel
suppositories
topical products

Question 7

describe the effect of the softgel composition form on bioavailability

Answer 7

quicker absorption due to liquid form there for better bioavailability

Question 8

advantages of softgel composition

Answer 8

improved drug bioavailability

formed filled and sealed in one go

easy to swallow -> better patient compliance

dose uniformity and precision

safer manufacturing due to lack of air borne powders

drugs are protected against oxidation

Question 9

disadvantages of softgel composition

Answer 9

manufacture is complex and time consuming

specialized equipment needed

high quality geletin needed

Question 10

give 5 examples of softgel fill matrices

Answer 10

lipophilic liquids

hydrophilic liquids

self emulsifying oils

micro emulsion systems

drug suspensions

Question 11

what are the requirements for formulation of soft capsule products

Answer 11

a stable physical form of drug

a fill vehicle that minimizes transfer of water

excipient free from interactions and impurities

inert environment during manufacturing

moderate drying conditions