Starch capsules: an alternative system for oral drug delivery

Abstract

Manufactured by the process of injection moulding, starch capsules have been shown to be a very useful alternative delivery system for orally administered compounds. This review describes the starch capsule manufacturing and filling processes and provides an overview of the capsules’ physical characteristics. In addition, investigations supporting the development of novel delivery technologies based on the starch capsules are described. Particular emphasis is given to a technology that facilitates drug delivery to specific sites in the human gastrointestinal tract.