Tablets and Capsules
At VetMedics Compounding Pharmacy, one of our dosage forms is tablets and capsules.
What is the difference between a tablet and a capsule?
A tablet is a tightly packed, solid pill that is given orally. It is round and cannot be opened. Tablets are the most traditional dosage form. Tablets are made to meet the specifications of your veterinarian.
A capsule, on the other hand, is a cylinder. It cannot be cut into two pieces and has a dissolvable gel, powder or jelly enclosed in it. Capsules are a great option to house any bitter-tasting medication because the capsule helps get rid of any unpleasant taste.
What is the advantage of using tablets and capsules to give animals their medication?
Putting an animal’s medication in a tablet or capsule allows us to customize dosages. For example, if a dog needs 2 mg of a particular medication but it is only available in a 10 mg tablet, we can make a capsule that contains only (the needed) 2 mg of the active drug. Another perk of capsules is that the compounding process allows us to combine multiple medications into one capsule — or we can customize each medication in a different-colored capsule.
How do our specialists create capsules?
To create capsules, we use compounding techniques with specialized equipment to measure, mix and encapsulate just the right concentration, strength, and combination of medications. These are then placed into hard, gelatin, flavorless shells. Capsule size varies depending on the volume of medication needed. However, because most animals are not fans of getting medicine, we always do our best to use the smallest capsule possible.
How are tablets and capsules given to animals?
Because pets are most comfortable with their owners, we recommend that the owners administer all tablets and capsules, if possible. The tablets and capsules we create can easily be given at home. This eliminates the need to make frequent trips to pick up and/or administer medication.
Pets typically do not have a problem taking capsules because they have flavorless shells. Tablets, however, may need to be ground into powder form and mixed into dry or wet food to help conceal the medication’s taste. The tablets are typically flavored to your pets’ favorite flavor.
Questions?
If you have any questions about tablets and capsules for your pet from VetMedics Compounding Pharmacy, please do not hesitate to contact us. As a veterinary compounding pharmacy, we are happy to work with veterinarians and pet owners alike to ensure happy, healthy pets.
