Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms: From Tablets to Injections – Explained with Examples

Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms: From Tablets to Injections – Explained with Examples


Dosage formsphysical formtablets, capsules, syrups, injections, creams, ointments, and patches,Dosage forms can be classified basedon two main basesRoute of AdministrationPhysical Form or StateClassifies dosage forms by how they are introduced into the bodyOral, parenteral (injection), topical, inhalation, rectal, vaginal, ocular, nasalRoute of AdministrationRoute of AdministrationOral RouteParenteral Route (Injection)Topical RouteVaginal RouteRectal RouteInhalation RouteNasal RouteOtic (Ear) RouteThe choice of dosage form depends on factors like the nature of the drug, the desired speed of action, patient compliancethe condition being treated.Dosage formsOral RouteTablets Capsules SyrupsElixirsSuspensionsSolutionsGranules and powdersParenteral Route (Injection)Intravenous (IV) - solutions and infusionsIntramuscular (IM) - injections (solutions/suspensions)Subcutaneous (SC) - injectionsIntradermal - injectionsTopical RouteOintmentsCreamsGelsLotionsPastesTransdermal patchesTopical powdersInhalation RouteMetered Dose Inhalers (MDIs)Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs)Nebulizer solutionsNasal spraysRectal RouteSuppositoriesEnemasRectal gels and creamsVaginal RoutePessariesVaginal tabletsVaginal creams and gelsVaginal ringsOcular (Eye) RouteEye drops (solutions/suspensions)Ophthalmic ointmentsOcular insertsOtic (Ear) RouteEar dropsEar ointmentsNasal RouteNasal dropsNasal spraysNasal gelsBased on the physical nature of the dosage formSolid (e.g., tablets, capsules), semi-solid (e.g., creams, ointments), liquid (e.g., syrups, suspensions), gaseous (e.g., aerosols, inhalers)Physical Form or StatePhysical Form or StateSolid Dosage FormsSemi-Solid Dosage FormsLiquid Dosage FormsGaseous Dosage FormsSolid Dosage FormsTablets Capsules PowdersGranulesLozengesPillsSemi-Solid Dosage FormsOintmentsCreamsGelsPastesSuppositories Gaseous Dosage FormsInhalersAerosolsNebulizersLiquid Dosage FormsSolutionsSyrupsElixirsTincturesSuspensionsEmulsionsMonophasicBiphasic