by What are Softgel Capsules?
Softgel capsules, also known as softgels, are a type of capsule intended for holding liquid, semi-solid and solid material in a soluble gelatin shell. Unlike hard capsules that contains powders or crystals, softgel are gelatin based and contains liquids, suspensions or viscous contents in the form of a liquid or paste. The outer shell of softgel is made up of gelatin providing an outer protective barrier while allowing the inner contents to be absorbed easily by the body.
Contents and Formulation of Softgel Capsules
Softgel use a unique liquid-fill technology to encapsulate active ingredients in a pre-formed soft gelatin shell. Active pharmaceutical ingredients in the form of oil, water-based solutions or suspensions are precisely metered and filled into the soft gelatin shell using a special filling machine. The thickness of the gelatin shell typically ranges between 1-3 mm depending on the formulation and contents. Softgel Capsule allows for encapsulation of both hydrophilic and lipophilic active ingredients using suitable carrier oils, solvents or surfactants. Common formulations inside softgel include fish oil, botanical oils, fat-soluble vitamins, medium-chain triglycerides and other lipid-based formulations.
Advantages of Softgel Technology
Superior Bioavailability – Softgel technology provides enhanced bioavailability of encapsulated actives compared to tablets due to following reasons:
– Gelatin shell permits faster gastric emptying time compared to tablets.
– Liquid or semi-solid form ensures quick dispersion and absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.
– Ability to solubilize both hydrophilic and lipophilic actives using suitable excipients increases absorption.
Accommodate Larger Doses – Due to their formulation characteristics, softgel capsules can incorporate significantly higher concentrations and doses of active ingredients compared to hard capsules or tablets of similar size. This makes them suitable for delivering higher dose supplements.
Mask Taste and Odor – The protective gelatin shell effectively masks unpleasant tastes and odors of encapsulated active ingredients compared to liquid solutions. This improves patient acceptability and compliance.
Avoid Stomach Irritation – Tablets or powders can cause abrasion or irritation of gastric mucosa during dissolution. However, the pre-formed softgel shell protects actives from direct contact with stomach acid thus minimizing gastric upset.
Ensure Product Stability – The moisture-proof and oxygen barrier properties of softgel shell provides superior protection against degradation of encapsulated ingredients compared to blister or bottle packaging. This significantly enhances shelf-life and stability of sensitive actives.
Applications of Softgel Technology in Supplements
Due to the distinct formulation advantages, softgel capsules have become the preferred delivery system for many nutritional supplements especially those containing oils. Some of the common supplement categories where softgel technology is widely utilized include:
Fish Oil Supplements – Softgels are ideal to deliver concentrated doses of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA in a stable and well-absorbing form. It protects delicate oils from oxidation and ensures good digestive tolerance.
Fat-Soluble Vitamins – Vitamins A, D, E and K are efficiently delivered via softgels to maximally utilize their fat-soluble properties. It dissolves rapidly yet gently in the gastrointestinal tract.
CoQ10 Supplements – The fat-soluble ubiquinone form of CoQ10 is optimally delivered using softgel formulation with enhanced absorption compared to tablets.
Turmeric Supplements – Curcuminoids in turmeric possess limited bioavailability which softgels help to improve by providing an optimal lipid environment for enhanced dissolution and uptake.
Herbal Oleoresins – Many potent botanical extracts are oleoresin based and best suited for softgel encapsulation to leverage lipophilic properties and maximize herbal benefits.
Softgel capsule technology provides significant formulation advantages for nutrient delivery compared to other dosage forms. Its ability to enhance bioavailability, accommodate high doses and protect labile actives makes it especially suitable for oil and fat-soluble based supplements. With continued innovation, softgels will remain an important delivery system for the nutritional and herbal supplements industry.
