In 2026, many Italian capsules are "functionalized" to deliver drugs to specific parts of the gut.
Enteric Capsules: These contain acid-resistant polymers that allow the capsule to pass through the stomach intact ($pH \approx 1.5–3.5$) and dissolve only in the small intestine ($pH \approx 6.8$). This is critical for drugs that would be destroyed by stomach acid or those that cause gastric irritation.
Chronotherapeutic Release: Specialized multi-layer capsules can be programmed to release ingredients at specific time intervals, aiding in the treatment of conditions like nighttime asthma or morning arthritis.
