Chapter 3: Which Dosage Form is Right for Your API?
• The appropriate dosage form for an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) depends on several factors, including the properties of the API, the desired route of administration, and the desired release profile. Some common dosage forms include tablets, capsules, oral solutions, injectables, and transdermal patches. A formulation scientist or a pharmaceutical development team can assist in determining the most appropriate dosage form for a specific API. • Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) can be formulated into various dosage forms for administration. Some of the most conventional include: • Tablets: solid dosage forms that can be taken orally • Capsules: oral dosage forms that contain a powder or granular material within a small, generally hard shell • Solutions: liquid dosage forms that can be taken orally or administered intravenously
• Suspensions: liquid dosage forms that contain insoluble particles suspended in a liquid • Emulsions: liquid dosage forms that contain two immiscible liquids, such as oil and water, that are emulsified to form a homogeneous mixture • Creams and ointments: topical dosage forms that are applied to the skin There are many other forms, such as injections, inhalers, transdermal patches, suppositories, pessaries etc. Finding the correct dosage form for an Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) is critical because it directly affects the safety and efficacy of the drug; yet identifying the most suitable method of administration is complex due to several factors, including: • Properties of the API
• Properties of the dosage form • Desired route of administration • Intended patient population
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