Tablets Vs. Caplets Vs. Gel Caps

[Doctor Z]

Other than their appearance, what the hell is the difference? Why are there at least 3 forms of every pill if it's all the same medicine? Do some work more effectively than others? Is there a unique PURPOSE for each of these 3 forms, or are they just wasting our time?

[Kris10]

I don't know but I always go for the brown tablets.

But I like white meat. :innocent:

[Doctor Z]

It's so silly that I have to make a completely arbitrary decision every time I buy Tylenol.

[ChrisTheCop]

I think it's all about consumer preference.

Some people cant, or dont like to, take regular tablets I guess.

Also, there may be less stomach upset in certain forms...

Ya know what? Now that you mention it, I have no idea.

I use whatever the lady nearest me has in her purse.

[SatCam]

Just choose the one that's easiest to crush up and snort

[Kris10]

I use whatever the lady nearest me has in her purse.

Women are suppose to have this stuff on them??? :blink: I usually leave it in my car.

[PapaBear]

I like gel caps, but don't leave them in your car in the summer! I did, and ended up with one giant Tylenol.

[Snoogans]

eat em all and see whats better

[ryno1974]

Other than their appearance, what the hell is the difference? Why are there at least 3 forms of every pill if it's all the same medicine? Do some work more effectively than others? Is there a unique PURPOSE for each of these 3 forms, or are they just wasting our time?

Gel Caps = a gel coating surrounding a (usually) liquid active ingredient. Disolves fast, often larger than others.

Tablets = A compressed dry blend of active and non active ingredients crushed under intense pressure to maintain the pill shape. Less desirable taste/swallowing wise. Especially bad if you cheap out and buy the no-name band (uncoated tastes like shit)

Caplets = A hybrid of tablets and capsules. Usually a tableted product with no coatings on it and inserted into a capsule shell. More expensive, easier to swallow, tastes better. Usually not as fast dissolving though.

[EliSnow]

Gelcaps seem to work faster than the rest. I will only go for Advil gelcaps for this reason.

[sr71blackbird]

I find the caplets are easier to go down than the tablets, but geltabs are smoother and are the easiest, but I find them more money.

[Radioguy]

Well, liquids are more quickly absorbed so it's no surprise. Also, a gel cap can always be mixed into a beverage.