Chrominfo: Advantages and disadvantages of semisolid dosage forms

Semisolid dosage forms are neither solid nor liquid, however, they are a combination or mixture of both, and they used for both local and systemic effects. Pharmaceutical semisolid dosage forms such as creams, ointments, gels, suppositories, and paste are used for topical application. Semisolid dosage forms are intended used as drug carriers that are transported topically through the skin, buckle tissue, rectal tissue, outer ear lining nasal mucosa, urethral membrane, vagina, and cornea. The semisolid may adhere adequately before washing on the surface of the application; this helps to extend the supply of drugs on the application site.
Advantages of semi-solid dosage forms:

The major advantage of a semi-solid dosage form is that it can be applied directly to the affected area, it gives prolong the action, and does not need to be administered orally.
It is convenient for unconscious patients or patients, such as children and old people, for whom oral administration is difficult.
Semisolid dosage forms are more stable in atmospheric conditions than liquid dosage forms and solid dosage forms.
It is suitable for those APIs that are low-density, amorphous hygroscopic.
Different drugs and excipients or ingredients can be added together to form a single dose.
It gives better adhesion and lasts long after application, hence the medicament give longer action.
It is washable after each use.
It is used externally, thereby reducing the risk of side effects.
It does not harm the gastrointestinal tract, as it does not need to be taken orally.
The semi-solid dosage form is more convenient for patients than other forms of drug administration.
It is suitable for medicines with a bitter taste, as it does not need to be taken orally.

Disadvantages of semi-solid dosage forms:

The major disadvantage of the semi-solid dosage form is that it has no dose accuracy and it needs to be applied directly.
In general, Pharmaceutical creams, ointments, gels, suppositories, and paste are greasy and they difficult to clean.
The semi-solid dosage form is less stable than the solid dosage form.
The base used in the dose may be oxidized.
The need to apply with the fingers every time can cause contamination.
Some patients may become irritation or allergic.
Semisolid dosage forms are usually a costly dosage because its manufacturing process is complex.
Semisolid dosage forms are Physio-chemically less stable compared with the solid dosage form.
Clothing staining is often associated with the use of creams, ointments, gels, and paste.