What is the function of enteric-coated tablets?

Enteric-coated tablets are specifically designed to dissolve in the intestine rather than in the stomach. This unique coating protects the tablet from the acidic environment of the stomach, allowing the medication to be released where it can be better absorbed in the more neutral pH of the intestines. This design is particularly beneficial for medications that can be irritating to the stomach lining or those that need to be protected from stomach acid to maintain their effectiveness.

The function of enteric coating also helps to ensure that certain medications can bypass the stomach, thus minimizing side effects such as nausea that might occur if the medication were released too early. By controlling the location of dissolution, enteric-coated tablets can enhance the therapeutic effect of the medication while reducing potential gastrointestinal discomfort.