Dosage Forms – Detailed Explanation
1. Introduction
A dosage form is the physical form in which a drug is produced and administered. It combines the
active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) with excipients to ensure safe, effective, and convenient
delivery. It determines how the drug is given, absorbed, distributed, and acts in the body.
2. Classification of Dosage Forms
a) Solid Dosage Forms
• Tablets – compressed, coated, chewable, effervescent, sublingual, buccal.
• Capsules – hard/soft gelatin, mask taste and dissolve quickly.
• Powders – bulk, divided, effervescent.
• Granules – better flow/compression.
• Lozenges/Troches – dissolve in mouth for local action.
b) Liquid Dosage Forms
• Solutions – clear, homogeneous.
• Suspensions – insoluble particles in liquid, shaken before use.
• Emulsions – oil and water mixtures.
• Syrups – concentrated sugar-based.
• Elixirs – hydroalcoholic solutions.
• Drops – ear, eye, nasal preparations.
c) Semi-Solid Dosage Forms
• Ointments – greasy bases.
• Creams – O/W or W/O.
• Gels – semi-transparent.
• Pastes – thick, protective.
• Suppositories – melt at body temperature.
d) Parenteral Dosage Forms
• Intravenous (IV) – rapid effect.
• Intramuscular (IM) – sustained.
• Subcutaneous (SC) – slow absorption.
• Intradermal – diagnostic.
Must be sterile and pyrogen-free.
e) Inhalation Dosage Forms
• Aerosols, inhalers, nebulizers – deliver to lungs (e.g., asthma).
f) Transdermal Dosage Forms
• Patches – controlled release via skin (e.g., nicotine, nitroglycerin).
g) Novel Drug Delivery Systems
• Liposomes, microspheres, nanoparticles, implants – targeted and controlled release.
3. Importance of Dosage Forms
• Accurate dose.
• Better compliance.
• Improved stability and bioavailability.
• Targeted delivery.
• Reduced side effects.
4. Summary
Dosage forms make drugs safe, effective, and acceptable. They enhance stability, ensure correct
dosing, and improve patient care.
