7-OH Tablets vs Capsules: Bioavailability, Shelf Life, and Format Economics

# 7-OH Tablets vs Capsules: Bioavailability, Shelf Life, and Format Economics Capsules dominate the supplement world generally but in the 7-OH market tablets are the more common format. Here is why and when the distinction matters. ## Active Ingredient Density Tablets can pack more active ingredient per unit than capsules because pressing allows higher density. For isolated [7-OH products](/product/pure-7oh-labs-blue-raz) where the active content per unit matters for dose precision, tablets win. Capsules work well for whole-leaf kratom powder where the goal is to package a gram or two per capsule for swallowing. They are less efficient for isolated extracts. ## Disintegration and Onset Capsules dissolve faster in the stomach than tablets — shells burst within 5-15 minutes typically. Tablets need to break down over 20-40 minutes. For research protocols where onset speed matters, capsules edge out tablets. For most protocols the difference is irrelevant. [Kratom shots](/product/bare-kratom-shots-blue-razz) beat both on onset if speed is critical. ## Shelf Life Tablets win on shelf life. Pressed tablets with protective coating can retain alkaloid potency for two years plus. Capsule shells (gelatin or HPMC) are less protective against moisture and oxygen. See our [storage guide](/blog/storing-kratom-products) for preservation best practices. ## Manufacturing Cost Tablets: higher equipment cost, lower per-unit cost at scale. Capsules: lower equipment cost, higher per-unit cost at scale. For small-batch custom formulations, capsules can be cheaper. For the standardized formats most 7-OH vendors carry, tablets are more economical. ## Portability Both are highly portable. Blister-packed tablets are arguably more rugged than capsule bottles, but both are pocket-size. ## Swallowing Capsules are smoother to swallow than tablets. For subjects who struggle with tablets, capsules or [shots](/blog/kratom-tablets-vs-shots) are alternatives. ## What We Carry 7OH North carries [pressed 7-OH tablets](/shop) exclusively for the isolated-compound line — the density, shelf life, and precision benefits matter most at this dose range. For whole-leaf research material we ship loose powder. *Products are sold for research purposes. Not for human consumption.*