What do hard gelatin capsules typically contain inside?

Hard gelatin capsules are designed primarily to contain solid formulations, which is why the correct answer is that they typically contain solids. These capsules are made from gelatin, which is suitable for encapsulating dry substances such as powders or granules. The solid contents within the capsules can include a variety of formulations like powders, granules, or even pellets, depending on the intended drug release characteristics and the pharmacological profile of the medicine.

The use of solid contents in hard gelatin capsules allows for efficient dosing, protection from environmental factors, and potentially improved drug bioavailability. Additionally, the solid state minimizes the risk of leakage or degradation, ensuring that the active ingredient remains stable until it reaches its intended site of action in the body.

In this context, while options such as liquids or gases might be suitable for other dosage forms, they are not appropriate for hard gelatin capsules due to the physical properties and design of the capsules. Liquids could potentially cause the capsule to disintegrate or leak, while gases would not be able to be contained within the capsule structure. Powders, while a subset of solids, are already encompassed within the broader classification of solid contents. Hence, focusing on solids provides the correct characterization of what hard gelatin capsules typically hold.