What is the primary goal of enteric coating on pharmaceutical tablets?

The primary goal of enteric coating on pharmaceutical tablets is to protect the drug from stomach acid. Enteric coatings are specially formulated to remain intact in the acidic environment of the stomach but dissolve in the more neutral or alkaline conditions of the intestines. This ensures that the active ingredients are released at the correct site of absorption, which is often the intestines, rather than in the stomach where they could be degraded by acid or potentially cause irritation.

This mechanism is particularly important for drugs that are acid-sensitive or those that can irritate the gastric mucosa. By bypassing the stomach, enteric-coated tablets can also improve the overall effectiveness of the medication by enhancing its bioavailability. The protective layer does not aim to enhance flavor, mask odor, or ensure rapid dissolution; rather, it is specifically designed to provide a barrier that allows for optimal absorption conditions beyond the stomach.