Difference Between Semi-liquid And Semi-solid Dosage Form

When you hear the word semi-solid dosage form, what comes to mind is dosage forms that exhibit solid properties but hold their shape under their own weight. That is that it takes the shape of the container to some extent but also exhibits the liquid property of flowing when subject to an external force.

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I used the word 'to some extent' because the material can fill up a container above the level of the container unlike some liquid. Example, water have a U shape and will pour over a cup at the top level unlike mercury that can stay a little above the level of the container as a liquid metal.

But the word semi-liquid is still used to describe the same state. This has led to confusion as to what each term means.

States Of Matter

There are three states of matter. We have the solid, liquid and gas form. Most drugs come in these states of matter. For example, tablet, capsule, suppositories, caplet, etc are solid dosage forms. Suspension, drop and solutions are examples of liquid dosage form while oxygen can be classified as gaseous form.

Other States Of Matter

There are some states of matter that fall in-between these with different behaviour and characteristics. For example, most inhalers are solid at room temperature that evaporate releasing their medication in the form of gas in the process of sublimation. Effervescent or carbon tablets are solid at room temperature but dissolve when added to liquid releasing carbon dioxide.

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Semi-solid And Semi-liquid State Of Matter

Semi-solid/Semi-liquid

Quasi-solids are commonly called semi-solid or semi-liquid dosage form. A common example is petroleum jelly (also called petroleum). They are all the same. There is no difference. The words can be use interchangeably.

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