Dosage Forms

Dosage Form

The physical manifestation of a medication that is ultimately taken by or administered to the patient

Active Ingredient

The chemical substance that exerts the therapeutic effect

Excipient

Inactive substance(s) added to aid manufacturing, stability, or patient acceptance

Purpose of Excipients

-Enhance stability

-Improve palatability

-Aid in manufacturing

-Modify drug release characteristics

Solid Medications

Medications that are stable, convenient for oral administration, and have a longer shelf-life.

Semi-Solid Medications

Topical application and have a localized effect

Liquid Medications

Easy dosing adjustments, suitable for those with trouble swallowing, and facilitates non-enternal administration.

Tablets

Compressed powder containing active ingredient(s) and excipients. Can be coated, uncoated, chewable, or sublingual. Often stable and easy to store.

Capsules

Meds in a gelatin or polymer shell. The medication encapsulated is in a different form, like granules or powder. Hard- or soft-gel forms can mask unpleasant tastes.

Lozenges

Medication that dissolves slowly in the mouth. Often used for throat or oral conditions.

Suppositories

Forms that can be inserted rectally or vaginally. Melt or dissolve at body temperature, providing local or systemic effects.

Granules/Powders

Fine or coarse particles of medications, sometimes reconstituted before use. Can be mixed with liquids or sprinkled on food.

Transdermal Patches

Adhesive patches applied to the skin for systemic drug delivery. Steady release of medication over time

Implants

Small, solid devices inserted under the skin for long-term release. Provide sustained medication levels over weeks or months

Creams

Oil-in-water emulsion base, lighter than ointments. Generally well-absorbed, non-greasy.

Ointments

Water-in-oil or hydrocarbon base, high oil content. Thicker, forms an occlusive barrier on the skin.

Gels

Semi-solid, jelly-like substance, often containing water. Quick absorption, cooling effect.

Lotions

More fluid than creams, easier to spread over large areas. Light texture, often used for mild or widespread dermatologic conditions

Pastes

Thick, stiff preparations with more solid components than ointments. Can provide a protective barrier, less greasy.

Solutions

Active ingredient completely dissolved in a suitable solvent. Uniform concentration; no shaking needed.

Suspensions

Finely divided particles dispersed in liquid, but not dissolved. Require shaking to redisperse particles.

Syrups & Elixirs

Oral liquies with higher sugar content or alcohol base. Pleasant taste, good for pediatric use.

Emulsions

Mix of 2 immiscible liquids, stabilized by an emulsifier. Typically oil-in-water or water-in-oil.

Extracts/Tinctures

Concentrated plant or chemical solutions made via extraction. Often high potency, may contain alcohol.

Extended Release

Gradual drug release over an extended period

Delayed Release

Release occurs at a time other than immediately after dosing

Enteric Coatings

Protect the active ingredient from stomach acid & protect the stomach from irritation. Enteric-coated medications generally should not be crushed or split.

Inhalants

Medication delivered directly to the lungs

Nasal Sprays

Local or systemic effects

Aerosols

Pressurized dosage forms. Typically for respiratory conditions.

Special Instructions

-Shake suspensions

-Do not crush or break certain tablets

Patches & implants need careful handling

-Do not open chew capsules unless labeling instructs otherwise