What Is The Difference Between Soft Gelatin And Hard Gelatin Capsule?

The different dosage form of medications needs proper formulation too. The most convenient among the modern dosage forms is gelatin. It can be hardened or softened based on the requirements and converted into capsules. Hard gelatin capsules differ from soft ones in hardness and appearance. Here is a list of the difference between them.

Difference between soft and hard gelatin capsules -

1. Parts

Hard gelatin capsules have two significant parts, a cap and a body. The cap fits on the body and the pharmaceutical dose is stored inside the cavity. Soft gelatin capsules, on the other hand, have no pieces. They are single pieces sealing the medicine or content inside them.

2. Content type

Hard gelatin capsules are manufactured to store dry content with less moisture content. On the contrary, soft gelatin capsules can seal oil-based medicines or solutions inside.

3. Sizes

Hard capsules can be formulated in different sizes, whereas soft gelatin ones cannot have limitations. The hardness allows forming various shapes and sizes.

4. Machines for manufacturing

Hard gelatin capsules need complex machines for manufacturing, but soft gelatin capsules are easy to produce.

5. Formulation

Had capsules require hard gelatin, colorings, plasticizer, and titanium dioxide to manufacture. Soft gelatin capsules need soft gelatin, sugars, plasticizers, opacifiers, and preservatives to manufacture.

6. Shape

Hard gelatin capsules are cylindrical and spherical-topped small containers in shape. Soft gelatin capsules are made often in oval shapes.  They can also be found in round and tube-like shapes.

7. Leakage

Hard capsules can break but will not leak. Soft capsules generally don’t break but can leak.

Choosing the suitable capsule for content

According to the differences listed above, the type of capsule is the basis of the content. The size and shape are also determined by the packaging features.

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