Which term describes a powdered medication enclosed in a gelatin shell?

• A. Capsules
• B. Nebules
• C. Inhalants
• D. Cough syrup

Answer: (A)

Capsules describe a dosage form where the active drug is inside a gelatin shell. In hard capsules, the shell is two pieces that enclose a fine powder, while soft gelatin capsules usually contain liquid rather than powder. The gelatin shell protects the drug, masks taste, and lets you swallow the dose easily; once inside the stomach, gastric fluids dissolve the shell and release the powder. This differs from forms delivered by inhalation or as liquids, such as nebulized or inhaled medications and cough syrups, which are not powdered doses enclosed in a gelatin shell. The defining feature here is the powdered medication held inside a gelatin capsule.