Enteric-coated tablets are oral medications that have a polymer coating.
This coating helps prevent stomach problems associated withpain medicationslike non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Enteric-coating also helps prevent your stomach acids from making certain medications ineffective.
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This article discusses enteric coatings on medications like NSAIDs and what their purpose is.
What Are Enteric-Coated Tablets?
Enteric-coated tablets are coated with a polymer coating, often a derivative of cellulose or acrylic acid.
The specific coating is chosen based on how and if it breaks down in different pH environments.
Some medications won’t work if they break down in an acidic environment.
The purpose of the enteric coating is to protect the medication until it moves into your small intestine.
This helps maximize its absorption and increase its effectiveness.
How do I know if a pill is enteric-coated?
Enteric-coated tablets typically have the letters EN or EC at the end of the medication name.
Preventing Stomach Ulcers
When you takeNSAIDs, an enteric coating helps protect your stomach from irritation.
Between 15% and 30% of people who use NSAIDs long-term will develop stomach ulcers.
One way the pharmaceutical industry addresses this potential complication is by coating the pills.
Enteric-coated pain medication is coated with special ingredients that prevent irritation of the stomach lining.
These pills usually come in tablet or capsule form.
The word “enteric” means “relating to the intestine.”
Do you take enteric-coated tablets with or without food?
Summary
Enteric-coated tablets are covered with a polymer coating that helps protect your stomach from irritation.
Enteric coatings are also used to ensure that certain medications aren’t damaged by your stomach acid.
Drugs like NSAIDs are often enteric-coated to help prevent stomach ulcers and other gastrointestinal side effects.
Certain drugs are also enteric-coated so they can be absorbed in the small intestine instead of the stomach.
You shouldn’t cut, crush, or chew enteric-coated medication.
Ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider about the best way to take these drugs.
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