Question

Soft gelatin capsules require plasticizers more compared to hard gelatin capsules for _______

• A. Preventing oxidation of fill material
• B. Improving drug solubility
• C. Enhancing disintegration in gastric fluid
• D. Maintaining shell flexibility at low moisture equilibrium

Hint:

Plasticizers such as glycerin keep soft gelatin capsule shells flexible and prevent brittleness.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept:
Soft gelatin capsules contain gelatin, water, and plasticizers such as glycerin or sorbitol.

Step 1: Function of plasticizers.
Plasticizers make the gelatin shell soft, flexible, and elastic.

Step 2: Need in soft gelatin capsules.
Soft gelatin capsules have a flexible shell. Without enough plasticizer, the shell may become hard, brittle, or cracked.

Step 3: Moisture equilibrium.
At low moisture levels, gelatin can lose flexibility. Plasticizers help maintain flexibility even when moisture content is low.

Step 4: Final answer.
Thus, plasticizers are used to maintain shell flexibility at low moisture equilibrium. \[ \boxed{\text{Maintaining shell flexibility at low moisture equilibrium}} \]