Capsules vs. Tablets: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Capsules are gelatin cases containing powder or liquid medication, while tablets are compressed powders molded into solid forms.
Key Differences
Capsules are small, cylindrical medication forms that typically have a gelatinous outer shell. The gelatin can dissolve easily in the stomach, releasing the medication inside, which can be in liquid or powder form. Capsules are known for their smooth, easy-to-swallow surface, and can sometimes be opened to mix the contents with food or drink if the patient has difficulty swallowing.
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Nov 08, 2023
Tablets, on the other hand, are made by compressing powder into a firm, dense mass. They often include binders, fillers, and other ingredients to maintain their shape and release medication over a specified period. Some tablets are coated with sugar or similar substances to make them easier to swallow, and others are scored so they can be split easily for dosage adjustments.
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Nov 08, 2023
Capsules can offer a dosage form that masks the taste of the medication, as the gelatin shell has no flavor and dissolves quickly after swallowing. This makes capsules an attractive option for medications that might have an unpleasant taste or odor, providing a more palatable experience for the patient.
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Nov 08, 2023
In contrast, tablets may not always effectively mask the taste of the medication, although coatings are sometimes used to improve the flavor. Tablets can also offer extended-release options, where the medication is released slowly over time, something that is more challenging to achieve with standard capsules.
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Nov 08, 2023
Because capsules are sealed and airtight, they can be better suited for volatile or hygroscopic medications that might be sensitive to moisture or air. This ensures the stability and longevity of the medication contained within.
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Nov 08, 2023
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Tablets, being more robust, are generally more durable than capsules and can withstand more handling without damage. This can make them more suitable for packaging and transportation, especially in environments where careful handling cannot be guaranteed.
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Nov 08, 2023
Comparison Chart
Composition
Gelatin shell containing powder/liquid
Compressed powder or granules
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Nov 08, 2023
Dissolution
Dissolve quickly in the stomach
May dissolve slowly or in specific conditions
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Nov 08, 2023
Taste
Generally tasteless due to the shell
Can have a noticeable taste unless coated
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Nov 08, 2023
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Release Mechanism
Immediate release unless specially designed
Can be designed for immediate or controlled release
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Capsules and Tablets Definitions
Capsules
A small gelatinous container that holds medication.
She took a vitamin D capsule with her breakfast.
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Nov 08, 2023
Tablets
A solid, compressed block of medicinal powder.
She took an aspirin tablet for her headache.
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Nov 08, 2023
Capsules
A short, concise summary of a topic or event.
He wrote a capsule of the day's news for the website.
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Nov 08, 2023
Tablets
A type of sugary confection, similar to fudge.
He enjoyed a piece of Scottish tablet with his tea.
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Nov 08, 2023
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Capsules
A dry fruit that releases seeds when it opens.
The poppy's capsule split open to disperse its seeds.
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Nov 08, 2023
Tablets
A flat, portable computer with a touchscreen.
She downloaded books onto her tablet for the flight.
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Nov 08, 2023
Capsules
A detachable, protected enclosure for astronauts.
The capsule re-entered the Earth's atmosphere safely.
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Nov 08, 2023
Tablets
A slab or plaque, as of stone or ivory, with a surface that is intended for or bears an inscription.
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Oct 19, 2023
Capsules
A collection of essential, timeless clothing pieces.
Her capsule wardrobe made packing for trips an easy task.
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Nov 08, 2023
Capsules
A small soluble container, usually made of gelatin, that encloses a dose of an oral medicine or a vitamin.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Capsules
(Anatomy) A fibrous, membranous, or fatty sheath that encloses an organ or part, such as the sac surrounding the kidney or the fibrous tissues that surround a joint.
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Oct 19, 2023
Capsules
(Microbiology) A polysaccharide outer shell enveloping certain bacteria.
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Oct 19, 2023
Tablets
A lightweight, portable computer having a touchscreen as the method by which data is input.
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Oct 19, 2023
Capsules
A dry dehiscent fruit that develops from two or more united carpels.
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Oct 19, 2023
Capsules
The thin-walled, spore-containing structure of mosses and related plants.
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Oct 19, 2023
Tablets
A pad of paper for writing notes.
He jotted down his thoughts on a small writing tablet.
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Nov 08, 2023
Tablets
An inscribed piece of stone or metal commemorating an event.
A marble tablet at the site commemorates the battle.
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Nov 08, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What are tablets made of?
Tablets are made of compressed powder containing the medication and binders.
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Nov 08, 2023
Do capsules have a taste?
Capsules usually have no taste due to the gelatin shell.
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Nov 08, 2023
Do tablets have a taste?
Tablets can have a taste unless they're coated with a flavorless material.
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Nov 08, 2023
Are capsules easier to swallow than tablets?
Capsules are often considered easier to swallow because of their smooth surface.
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Nov 08, 2023
How long do capsules take to work?
Capsules typically work quickly as they dissolve fast in the stomach.
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Nov 08, 2023
Can capsules be broken open?
Some capsules can be opened to mix the contents with food or drink.
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Nov 08, 2023
How long do tablets take to work?
Tablets may work immediately or over time if they're designed for controlled release.
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Can you chew capsules?
Capsules are not meant to be chewed; they're designed to be swallowed whole.
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Nov 08, 2023
Can you chew tablets?
Some tablets can be chewed if they are chewable formulations.
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Are capsules vegetarian?
Vegetarian capsules are available, but not all capsules are vegetarian.
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Nov 08, 2023
Can tablets be split?
Many tablets are scored to allow them to be split easily for dosage adjustments.
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Nov 08, 2023
What are capsules made of?
Capsules are typically made of gelatin or a vegetarian equivalent.
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Nov 08, 2023
Why would a medication be in a capsule form?
Medications that are sensitive to moisture or have an unpleasant taste are often put in capsules.
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Nov 08, 2023
Are capsules considered more expensive than tablets?
Capsules can be more expensive to produce than tablets.
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Nov 08, 2023
Why would a medication be in a tablet form?
Tablets are cost-effective and can offer controlled-release options.
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Nov 08, 2023
How are tablets made?
Tablelets are made by compressing powder under high pressure.
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Nov 08, 2023
Do both capsules and tablets have expiry dates?
Yes, both forms come with expiry dates, and efficacy may reduce after this date.
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Nov 08, 2023
Can both capsules and tablets be over-the-counter?
Yes, both forms can be found in over-the-counter medications.
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Nov 08, 2023
Can you take half a capsule?
Taking half a capsule is not recommended as it can alter the dose and efficacy.
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Nov 08, 2023
Are tablets gluten-free?
Some tablets are gluten-free, but it depends on the inactive ingredients used.
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Nov 08, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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