Abstract: The present invention provides a method for manufacturing a non-gelatin hard capsule shell. The hard capsule shell is made by a heat-melting method which involves heating a capsule forming composition (preferably in powdery form) in a mold, followed by inserting a pestle into the mold to coat the melted capsule forming composition onto the pestle. The hard capsule shell thus formed, after hardened and dried, is removed from the pestle. This method has the advantages over the conventional “dip molding method” for not requiring the capsule forming composition to be pre-dissolved in solution so that no solvent is used in preparing the capsule forming composition. Also, by inserting a pestle into a mold, a pressure is imposed so as to ensure uniform coating of the capsule forming composition to the pestle. The present invention also provides a capsule forming composition which comprises a polymer and optionally a plasticizer and an apparatus for making the non-gelatin hard capsule shell.

Abstract: The present invention provides a capsule which comprises (1) a capsule shell, and (2) a liquid core composition. The capsule shell comprises a pH-dependent polymer and optionally a plasticizer. The liquid core composition contains liquid up to 70% by volume. The pH of the liquid core composition is adjusted to or at a pH in which the pH-dependent polymer is insoluble. The liquid core composition is preferably a decoction or condensate of the decoction containing herbal extract. The present invention further provides methods for making the capsule.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for manufacturing a non-gelatin hard capsule shell. The hard capsule shell is made by a heat-melting method which involves heating a capsule forming composition (preferably in powdery form) in a mold, followed by inserting a pestle into the mold to coat the melted capsule forming composition onto the pestle. The hard capsule shell thus formed, after hardened and dried, is removed from the pestle. This method has the advantages over the conventional “dip molding method” for not requiring the capsule forming composition to be pre-dissolved in solution so that no solvent is used in preparing the capsule forming composition. Also, by inserting a pestle into a mold, a pressure is imposed so as to ensure uniform coating of the capsule forming composition to the pestle. The present invention also provides a capsule forming composition which comprises a polymer and optionally a plasticizer and an apparatus for making the non-gelatin hard capsule shell.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an oral pharmaceutical preparation which contains an acid or base labile pharmaceutical ingredient which is embedded in an oily matrix which is controlled at neutral pH. The oily matrix-embedded pharmaceutical ingredient is encapsulated and then being coated by an enteric coating. The enteric coating enables the pharmaceutical ingredient to reach the small intestine for absorption. The oily matrix has the advantages of avoiding acidic or basic conditions. It can also isolate moisture and oxygen so as to allow for greater absorption and bioavailability of the pharmaceutical ingredient in vivo.

Abstract: The porous capslues were prepared by mechanical drilling, addition of effervescent to gelatin solution, or purging of inert gas into the gelatin solution. The porous capsules were then hardened by exposure to the cross-linking reagent, or by radiating under the UV, or microwave, or .gamma.-Ray. The usage of these porous gelatin capsules apart for pharmaceuticals extends to veterinary, cosmetic, and nutrient purposes. They are also utilized in the delivering of required beneficial agents to the chemical reactor, environment, and for agricultural purposes.