US Medical Term · medications
Capsule
Cápsula
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Capsule |
| Spanish (Español) | Cápsula |
| Chinese (中文) | 膠囊 |
| Korean (한국어) | 캡슐 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Viên nang |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Kapsula |
| Portuguese (Português) | Cápsula |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | แคปซูล |
| Japanese (日本語) | カプセル |
What it means
A capsule is a dosage form in which medication is enclosed within a gelatin or vegetarian shell that dissolves after you swallow it, releasing the drug inside. Hard-shell capsules contain powder or small beads, while soft-gel capsules contain liquid medication. Some capsules can be opened and the contents mixed with a small amount of food or liquid if swallowing is difficult; however, others, especially extended-release or enteric-coated capsules, must not be opened because this can alter how the drug is absorbed. Always check with your pharmacist before opening any capsule to confirm whether it is safe to do so.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
Can I open this capsule and mix the contents into applesauce?
¿Puedo abrir esta cápsula y mezclar el contenido con compota de manzana?
I notice the capsule is a different color than usual. Should I be concerned?
Noto que la cápsula es de un color diferente al habitual. ¿Debo preocuparme?
This extended-release capsule should not be opened or chewed.
Esta cápsula de liberación prolongada no debe abrirse ni masticarse.
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026