Sometimes our customers explain a use for empty capsules that makes us curious enough to ask a few more questions.
Recently, a customer mentioned in our survey that they were filling our DRcaps® delayed-release capsules with NAC powder. We asked why they chose delayed release rather than a conventional empty capsule.
“I’m using the capsules to delay the release of NAC as it can irritate the stomach lining. I’m using NAC to breakdown sibo bacterial biofilm and it needs to get to the small intestine, hence I need to delay the release.”
That told us what this customer was trying to achieve. They were concerned about stomach discomfort, and they hoped the capsule would open further along the digestive tract.
What do NAC and SIBO have to do with each other?
NAC stands for N-acetylcysteine. It is known for its mucus-thinning properties and has also been studied in laboratories for effects on certain bacterial biofilms. A biofilm is a community of microorganisms embedded in a protective matrix.
SIBO means small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. It’s understandable that someone reading about biofilms might become interested in NAC. But findings from laboratory experiments do not establish that swallowing NAC will break down SIBO-related biofilms or treat SIBO. The human clinical evidence is still limited.
Why delay the release of NAC?
Our customer gave two reasons: NAC can cause digestive discomfort in some people, and they wanted it to reach the small intestine before being released. Nausea and abdominal symptoms are known possible side effects of oral NAC.
Delaying capsule opening might sound like a solution, but it has not been established that putting NAC in delayed-release capsules prevents stomach irritation or improves SIBO outcomes.
What is different about DRcaps®?
DRcaps® are plant-based HPMC capsules developed by Capsugel®, part of Lonza. They are designed to delay capsule opening compared with conventional immediate-release capsules. Lonza describes an approximate 45-minute delay under specified test conditions; that is not an exact timer for every person.
Most importantly, delayed release is not the same as guaranteed release in the small intestine. DRcaps® are not a substitute for a validated pharmaceutical enteric-coated drug formulation, and they do not guarantee that NAC will bypass the stomach.
Can DRcaps® be filled with NAC powder?
DRcaps® are intended for compatible dry fills. As with any powder, the amount that fits depends on bulk density and packing, not simply on capsule size. Customers should weigh their fills rather than assume a certain milligram quantity from a size chart. DRcaps® are not intended for liquid filling.
What we learned from this customer
Some people choose empty capsules because they dislike the taste of a powder. Others care about capsule size, plant-based materials or when the capsule opens. In this case, our customer had a very specific reason for choosing delayed release.
We appreciate customers sharing the thinking behind their choices. It helps us explain the differences between capsule types more clearly, without making promises that capsule technology cannot support.
To compare capsule formats, visit our Pure Capsules website and explore our DRcaps® range. You can also read our guide to delayed-release versus enteric-coated capsules.
Looking for the product discussed in this customer story? Compare DRcaps® sizes or see Size 000 clear DRcaps®. These are empty delayed-release shells, not a treatment for SIBO.
Note: This article describes an individual customer’s stated reason for choosing DRcaps®. It is not a report of treatment results or a medical recommendation. Clinical evidence does not establish that NAC in DRcaps® treats SIBO or disrupts biofilms in the human small intestine. Seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional about medical conditions and NAC use.
