Dosage form

A dosage form is the physical form of a dose of medication, such as a capsule or injection. The route of administration is dependent on the dosage form of a given drug.

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Various dosage forms may exist for the same compound, since different medical conditions may warrant different routes of administration. For example, persistent vomiting may make it difficult to use an oral dosage form; in this case, it may be advisable to use either an injection or a suppository. Also, specific dosage forms may be warranted for certain medications, since there may be problems with stability, e.g. insulin cannot be given orally since it is digested by the gut.

Examples

Inhaled dosage forms

• Aerosol
• Gas
• Inhaler & Metered dose inhaler
• Solution for nebulizer

Ophthalmic dosage forms

• Eye drop (solution or suspension)
• Ophthalmic gel
• Ophthalmic ointment

Oral dosage forms

• Capsule
• Powder
• Solution
• Suspension
• Tablet
• Buccal or sublingual tablet

Otic dosage forms

• Ear drop (solution or suspension)

Parenteral dosage forms

• Solution or suspension for injection

Rectal dosage forms

• Enema
• Suppository

Topical dosage forms

• Cream
• Gel
• Liniment
• Lotion
• Ointment
• Paste
• Transdermal patch

Vaginal dosage forms

• Douche
• Intrauterine device
• Pessary (vaginal suppository)
• Vaginal ring
• Vaginal tablet

See also

• Drug delivery
• Pharmaceutical form
• Route of administration