Storage conditions of hollow gelatin capsules for medicinal use
The storage conditions of hollow gelatin capsules for medicinal use are crucial to ensure their quality, safety and effectiveness. The following is a detailed introduction to their storage conditions:
1. Temperature control
Recommended storage temperature:
It is generally recommended to store hollow gelatin capsules for medicinal use in a constant temperature environment of 15℃~25℃. Too high a temperature will cause the capsules to soften, stick or deform; too low a temperature may make the capsules brittle and increase the risk of rupture.
Temperature fluctuation control:
Avoid drastic temperature fluctuations. It is recommended that the temperature fluctuation range of the storage environment should not exceed ±5℃. Temperature fluctuations may cause changes in capsule size and affect compatibility with drugs.
2. Humidity control
Recommended relative humidity:
The relative humidity of the storage environment should be controlled between 35% and 65%. Too high a humidity will cause the capsules to absorb moisture, swell, soften or even mold; too low a humidity may cause the capsules to lose water and become brittle.
Moisture-proof measures:
The storage area should be equipped with dehumidification equipment and avoid contact with water sources or wet items. Capsules should be packaged in moisture-proof materials, such as aluminum foil bags or sealed cans.
3. Light control
Store away from light: Medicinal gelatin hollow capsules should be kept away from direct exposure to sunlight or strong light, as light may cause aging, discoloration or degradation of the capsule material.
Packaging requirements: Capsules should be packaged in opaque packaging materials, such as brown glass bottles or light-proof aluminum foil bags, to reduce the impact of light.
4. Ventilation and air quality
Good ventilation: The storage area should be well ventilated to avoid air stagnation leading to humidity or odor accumulation.
Avoid pollution: The storage environment should be away from chemicals, volatile organic compounds or odor sources to prevent the capsules from absorbing odors or chemical reactions.
5. Packaging and sealing
Sealed packaging: Capsules should be sealed to prevent external moisture, oxygen or microorganisms from invading. After opening, they should be used as soon as possible, and unused capsules should be resealed for storage.
Anti-static treatment: The packaging material should have anti-static function to prevent the capsules from absorbing dust or sticking to each other due to static electricity.
6. Storage period and inspection
Expiration period management:
Medicinal gelatin hollow capsules usually have a clear expiration date and should be used within the expiration date. Expired capsules may undergo physical or chemical changes, affecting the stability of the drug.
Regular inspection:
The appearance, odor and physical state of the capsules should be checked regularly during storage. If adhesion, deformation, discoloration or odor is found, use should be stopped immediately.
7. Special precautions
Avoid mixing with drugs:
Capsules should be stored separately to avoid direct contact with drugs to prevent drug ingredients from corroding or migrating the capsule material.
Transportation conditions:
Constant temperature and humidity vehicles should be used during transportation to avoid damage to the capsules caused by high temperature, high humidity or severe vibration.
The storage of medicinal gelatin hollow capsules must strictly follow the principles of constant temperature, constant humidity, light avoidance and sealing to ensure that they maintain physical and chemical stability during storage and use. By controlling temperature, humidity, light and air quality, and using appropriate packaging materials, the shelf life of the capsules can be effectively extended to ensure the quality and safety of the drugs.
