Health Conditions A-Z Neurological Disorders Migraine Capsules vs. Tablets? Pick the Right Pill By Health Editorial Team Updated on June 16, 2022 Medically reviewed by Michael Menna, DO Medically reviewed by Michael Menna, DO Michael Menna, DO, is currently an attending emergency medicine physician at White Plains Hospital in White Plains, New York, with nearly 10 years of experience. learn more Share Tweet Pin Email All it takes is a quick stroll down the pain medication or supplements aisle of your pharmacy or grocery store to see that there are thousands of different formulations for over-the-counter medications. You'll see gelcaps, quick-dissolve tabs, capsules, and more. Those differences aren't just to make them look pretty, said Elsa-Grace V. Giardina, MD, a cardiologist, clinical pharmacologist, and professor at Columbia University Medical Center. Deciding if you should take a capsule versus a tablet or other forms of meds is an important decision. 01 of 03 Gelcaps Getty Images Such as Advil Liqui-Gels or Claritin Liqui-Gels What they do: Soft, flexible gelatin capsules hold liquid—which may be absorbed more quickly than regular pills. When they work best: If you have trouble swallowing medications the gelcap might be the choice you should reach for in your pain medication. "Gelcaps are easier to swallow than hard tablets, though they have to be bigger to fit in the same amount of formula," said Stephen Ross, MD, a family physician at the University of California Santa Monica, Los Angeles Medical Center. 02 of 03 Quick-Dissolve Tablets Juanmonino/Getty Images Such as Claritin RediTabs; Alavert Orally Disintegrating Tablets What they do: When placed under the tongue, the tablet dissolves, and the medication enters your bloodstream through the mucous membranes in your mouth. When they work best: If you need fast relief the quick dissolve tablet might be right for you. "Medicines that dissolve under the tongue get absorbed quicker than other forms," said Dr. Ross. Not many companies make medications in this form because it can be hard to make them taste okay. 03 of 03 Coated Tablets Istockphoto Such as Advil Coated Tablets; Bayer Safety Coated Aspirin What they do: The smooth coating helps tablets go down easier and can also delay absorption. For instance, said Dr. Giardina, enteric-coated aspirin dissolves in the small intestine rather than the stomach, where it could cause irritation. When they work best: If you have difficulty swallowing traditional tablets, need a time-sensitive medicine, or take aspirin daily—such as for heart health—coated tablets are a good choice. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit