Soft capsules assortment in Lithuania: Analysis of medical indications, excipients and origin countries

Abstract

Introduction Soft capsules are a popular oral dosage form used for a variety of medical indications. This dosage form is used for the drugs, food supplements, and cosmetics. Soft capsules offer several benefits: easy to swallow, quick absorption, precise dosing, enhanced stability, versatility, masking taste and odor, customization [1]. For this reason a preferred choice for both patients and healthcare professionals. The softgel were invented early in the 19th century to mask the unpleasant taste of many drugs that were used at the time. A number of unsuccessful attempts have been made to overcome this issue. The first successful solution to this problem was the invention of the capsule, which encases a single dose in a mild, odorless gelatin film that is easy to swallow without compromising its effectiveness. Firstly, the softgel spread in western and eastern Europe, North and South America, and then they reach Central Europe, including Lithuania [2]. Due to their advantages have contributed to the high demand in various industries, making them a good choice for delivering medications and food supplements effectively. In this regard, we conducted a study on the assortment of softgels in the Lithuanian market to understand how the soft capsules are distributed by indication, country of origin and excipients. Materials and methods In this work 36 names of soft capsules registered in Lithuania were analyzed. Websites such as vaistai.lt, didmena.limedika.lt were used as sources of information. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Exel 365 (Microsoft Office, Washington State, USA). [...] Conclusion From the data presented it can be concluded that soft capsules are common in the Lithuanian drugstore. One third of all registered drugs are medications that can only be obtained with a prescription from a licensed healthcare professional. The major group is benign prostatic hyperplasia, NSAID and used to treat cancer. Most excipients used in soft capsules are fillers, colourants, coat-forming agents, and diluents. All excipients play an important role in capsule shell and content. This study helps to develop soft capsules with a new softgel formulation, understanding trends, improve Lithuania‘s position in medicine production compared to other countries. Additionally, it would be useful for patients and healthcare professionals understanding softgel benefits and side effects.