Which of the following is NOT an advantage of hard gelatin capsules?

• A. Easy to fill
• B. Mask taste
• C. Ideal for hygroscopic ingredients
• D. Attractive appearance

Answer: (C)

Hard gelatin capsules are moisture-sensitive, so they’re not ideal for hygroscopic ingredients. Gelatin shells rely on a relatively fixed moisture level to maintain strength and integrity; when the contained material draws water from or brings moisture into the shell, the capsule can soften, swell, or become tacky. This can lead to filling problems, changes in disintegration behavior, and stability issues for the drug product. In contrast, easy filling, masking of taste by the shell, and the attractive appearance of capsules are clear advantages that these dosage forms offer. So, the statement about being ideal for hygroscopic ingredients isn’t an advantage because moisture sensitivity of the gelatin shell creates compatibility problems with such substances.