The cover of a capsule is made of ?

Capsules are one of the most common forms of medicines used to deliver drugs inside the body. The outer shell or cover of a capsule is made of a substance called gelatin. Gelatin is a natural, protein-based material obtained from collagen, which is found in the bones, skin, and connective tissues of animals such as cows and pigs. It is safe, digestible, and dissolves easily in the stomach, making it ideal for use in pharmaceuticals.

There are two main types of capsules — hard gelatin capsules and soft gelatin capsules.

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  Hard gelatin capsules are usually made of two hollow cylindrical halves that fit together. They are used for powdered or granulated drugs.

  
  


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  Soft gelatin capsules, on the other hand, have a flexible, single-piece outer shell that can hold liquids or oils.

  
  

When swallowed, the gelatin cover dissolves quickly in the stomach, releasing the medicine inside so that it can be absorbed by the body. Gelatin is preferred over materials like paper or plastic because it is biocompatible, meaning it does not harm body tissues, and it breaks down naturally without leaving residues.

In recent years, vegetarian or plant-based capsules have also been developed for people who avoid animal products. These are made from materials like hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), derived from plant cellulose. However, traditional gelatin capsules remain widely used due to their affordability, stability, and easy manufacturing process.

Understanding the composition of capsules is important in biology and medicine, as it connects pharmaceutical science with the body’s digestive and absorption mechanisms. Gelatin’s unique properties—such as being tasteless, colorless, and easily digestible—make it a perfect choice for encapsulating medicines and vitamins in daily healthcare.