Enteric Gelatin Capsules

Appearance

Transparent, semi-transparent, or opaque [8†L5][8†L15].

Grade

Pharmaceutical grade

Description

Hard gelatin capsules coated with an enteric polymer (such as cellulose esters or methacrylic acid copolymers) that resists dissolution in gastric fluid [1†L7-L8][8†L19]. Available in two subtypes: standard enteric (releases in the small intestine) and colon-targeted (releases in the colon) [8†L3][1†L12].

Stability and Storage Conditions

High stability; the enteric coating protects the capsule contents from gastric degradation. Coating thickness typically 12–18 μm [1†L22-L23].

Solubility

Insoluble in gastric fluid (pH 1.2); dissolves or disintegrates in intestinal fluid (pH 6.8–7.4) [1†L6].

Applications

Used for drugs that are unstable in gastric acid, irritate the stomach, or require targeted delivery to the intestine or colon for optimal therapeutic effect [1†L8][1†L15].