Nature of Shell and Capsule Content includes gelatin or non-gelatin materials that form the outer shell, designed for stability, protection, and ease of swallowing. Nature of Shell and Capsule Content also refers to the inner content—liquids, powders, granules, or semi-solids—formulated for accurate dosing and targeted drug release. Nature of the Shell: Soft gelatin capsules (soft … Read more
Partition Coefficient Definition: The partition coefficient (P) is the ratio of a drug’s solubility in lipid (oil) vs. water. It is often expressed as log P, which quantifies lipophilicity. $P = \frac{\text{Concentration in lipid phase}}{\text{Concentration in aqueous phase}}$ High log P (>3): Lipophilic (fat-soluble) Low log P (<1): Hydrophilic (water-soluble) Optimal log P (~1-3): Good … Read more
Soft gelatin capsules (soft gels) are a specialized form of capsules made from a single, pliable shell that encapsulates liquid or semi-solid formulations. Soft gelatin capsules are widely used in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries for delivering active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), oils, or other bioactive compounds. Key Features of Soft Gelatin Capsule: Composed of … Read more
Solubility Definition: Solubility is the ability of a drug to dissolve in a given solvent (e.g., water, lipids, organic solvents). Drugs must dissolve in biological fluids before they can be absorbed and exert their effect. Importance in Drug Action: Oral Bioavailability: Poorly soluble drugs have lower absorption and bioavailability. Drug Formulation: It determines the formulation … Read more
Ionization Definition: Ionization refers to the process by which a molecule gains or loses protons, leading to the formation of charged species (ions). The extent of ionization depends on the pKa of the compound and the pH of the surrounding environment. Importance in Biological Action: Drug Absorption: Non-ionized (neutral) drugs cross biological membranes (lipid bilayers) … Read more
Medicinal Chemistry History and Development has evolved over centuries, shaped by key discoveries, advancing methodologies, and a deeper understanding of biology and chemistry. Early Medicinal Chemistry History Ancient Times – Early medicinal practices in Egypt, China, and India relied on natural products and herbs for healing. Alchemy to Chemistry – Medieval alchemy laid the foundation … Read more
In-Process and Final Product Quality Control Tests are essential for ensuring pharmaceutical product quality. In-Process and Final Product Quality Control Tests check parameters during manufacturing process and confirm safety, efficacy, and compliance before release. In-Process Quality Tests: Weight Variation: Ensures consistent weight across capsules. Conducted by weighing individual capsules and comparing with average weight. Moisture … Read more
Filling, Finishing, and Special Techniques of Formulation involve accurately transferring the formulated product into suitable containers, followed by sealing, labeling, and inspection to ensure quality. Specialized techniques enhance stability, efficacy, and product appeal. Filling, Finishing, and Special Techniques of Formulation also include advanced processes like lyophilization, aseptic processing, and microencapsulation to improve shelf-life, precision dosing, … Read more
Size of capsules refers to the standardized dimensions and volume of empty capsules used to encapsulate medicines or supplements. Capsule sizes range from 000 (largest) to 5 (smallest), based on fill volume. Choosing the right size of capsules ensures accurate dosing, ease of ingestion, and formulation efficiency. Hard gelatin capsules are available in various sizes, … Read more
Production of Hard gelatin capsules shells involves dipping stainless steel pins into a gelatin solution to form capsule halves. Production of Hard Gelatin Capsule Shells – Precise control in viscosity, temperature, and drying ensures consistent capsule quality for pharmaceutical use. The manufacturing of empty hard gelatin capsule shells is a specialized process often done on … Read more
