Pharmaceutical Gelatin is a high-purity, food-grade protein derived from collagen, primarily sourced from animal bones, hides, or skins (typically bovine or porcine origin). It is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and non-toxicity.
Key Characteristics
Source: Bovine or porcine collagen
Form: Granules or powder
Color: Pale yellow to off-white
Solubility: Soluble in warm water, forms a gel upon cooling
Molecular Structure: Polypeptide composed of amino acids, primarily glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline
Pharmaceutical Applications
Capsule Manufacturing
Hard Gelatin Capsules: Commonly used for solid drugs or powder-based formulations
Soft Gelatin Capsules (Softgels): Used for liquid or oil-based drug delivery
Advantages: Easy to swallow, tamper-evident, protects active ingredients
Tablet Coatings & Binders
Used to improve tablet hardness and control drug release
Plasma Expanders & Hemostatic Agents
Gelatin-based products like gelatin sponges or sheets are used in surgeries to control bleeding
Vaccine Production
Used as a stabilizer in some vaccines to maintain the effectiveness of the active ingredients
Nutritional Supplements
Found in collagen supplements due to its amino acid content supporting joint and skin health
