The Shape of Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms

Definition:
In pharmaceuticals, dosage form shape refers to the physical appearance and geometry of the medicine, which can influence patient compliance, swallowing ease, identification, and manufacturing efficiency.

1. Solid Dosage Forms

Tablets

• Common Shapes:

  • Round – most common, easy to manufacture.

  • Oval / Caplet – easier to swallow than round tablets.

  • Oblong – common for higher-dose tablets.

  • Square, Triangular, Hexagonal – mainly for branding and identification.

• Special Shapes:

  • Biconvex – prevents chipping and aids coating.

  • Flat-faced – used for certain chewable or dispersible tablets.

Capsules

• Hard Gelatin Capsules – elongated, cylindrical shape.

• Soft Gelatin Capsules – spherical or oval.

2. Semi-Solid Dosage Forms

• Ointments, Creams, Gels – packaged in tubes or jars; shape depends on container.

• Applied externally, so product shape is usually the container’s shape rather than the formulation itself.

3. Liquid Dosage Forms

• Solutions, Suspensions, Syrups – no fixed “shape”; determined by container (bottle, vial, ampoule).

• For injectables: cylindrical ampoules or vials.

4. Novel / Special Dosage Forms

• Lozenges & Troches – disc or oval.

• Suppositories – bullet or torpedo shape for rectal use; oval for vaginal use.

• Transdermal Patches – rectangular, square, or circular.

Why Shape Matters in Pharmaceuticals

• Patient Compliance – easier swallowing and better acceptance.

• Identification & Branding – shape + color = unique recognition (important for preventing medication errors).

• Manufacturing Efficiency – some shapes are easier to coat, print, or package.

• Mechanical Strength – certain shapes reduce breakage during handling.