Capsules dissolve in your stomach primarily by their gelatin shell swelling and releasing the drug contents when exposed to stomach fluids.
The Capsule Dissolution Process
Capsules are designed for easy ingestion and controlled release of medication. A typical capsule consists of the drug itself, often mixed with additives, encased within a shell.
The Gelatin Shell
The shell of most capsules is made from gelatin. When a capsule is swallowed, it enters the stomach and comes into contact with the stomach's naturally wet environment – the stomach acid and other digestive fluids.
According to the reference, the gelatin shell reacts to this moisture:
- Swelling: The gelatin absorbs the water-based fluids.
- Releasing Contents: As the shell absorbs fluid and swells, it breaks open, releasing the drugs and additives held inside.
This process of the shell swelling and releasing its contents usually occurs quickly in the stomach's moist conditions.
The Contents: Drug Dissolution and Absorption
Once the shell has opened and released the powdered or granular contents into the stomach, the next step is for the drug particles themselves to dissolve in the stomach fluid.
The reference highlights that the speed at which the drug dissolves and is ready for absorption depends on several factors:
- Size of the Drug Particles: Smaller particles generally dissolve faster than larger ones, as they have more surface area exposed to the stomach fluid.
- Properties of the Additives: Capsules often contain additives (like fillers, binders, or disintegrants) that can influence how quickly the drug disperses and dissolves once the shell is gone.
After the drug dissolves in the stomach fluids, it can then be absorbed through the lining of the stomach or small intestine into the bloodstream, where it can exert its effect.
In summary, the capsule's journey involves the rapid opening of the outer shell followed by the dissolution of the drug particles within the stomach's liquid environment.
Key Stages of Capsule Breakdown:
| Stage | Process | Location | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Ingestion | Capsule is swallowed | Mouth/Esophagus | Travels to Stomach |
| 2. Shell Contact | Shell meets stomach fluid | Stomach | Shell becomes wet |
| 3. Shell Breakdown | Shell swells and opens | Stomach | Contents are released |
| 4. Contents Dissolution | Drug particles dissolve | Stomach | Drug becomes solution |
| 5. Absorption | Dissolved drug enters blood | Stomach/Intestine | Drug takes effect |
Understanding this process helps explain why some medications might be formulated as capsules and how different formulations can impact how quickly a drug starts working.
