Enteric coating is a pharmaceutical technique that allows tablets and capsules to tolerate the acidic environment of the stomach and release active components in the intestines. This coating acts as a protective layer, preventing the medicine from being dissolved or destroyed in the acidic pH of the stomach, assuring its passage to the lower gastrointestinal system, where it can be efficiently absorbed. Enteric coatings are made up of a variety of polymers, including cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose phthalate (HPMCP), and methacrylic acid copolymers (Eudragit). These polymers were chosen for their ability to withstand dissolution in acidic settings while staying soluble in higher pH environments such as the intestines. There are various steps involved in applying enteric coating. First, the active medicinal ingredient and various excipients are combined to produce the tablet or capsule. Then it goes through a coating procedure in which an enteric polymer solution is equally applied to the surface. This coating can be applied using a variety of techniques, including pan coating, fluidized bed coating, and compression coating. One of the primary benefits of enteric coating is that it protects the drug from gastrointestinal breakdown, which is especially significant for treatments that are sensitive to stomach acid or may irritate the stomach lining. Certain NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines) and drugs that can induce stomach discomfort, for example, are frequently enteric-coated to decrease these side effects. Furthermore, enteric coatings allow for the development of medications into delayed-release or extended-release formulations. These coatings help to maintain the therapeutic impact of the medication over time by limiting the rate of drug release. This controlled release technique also helps to improve patient compliance by minimizing dosing frequency. However, enteric coatings have limits as well. They may complicate the manufacturing process and raise production costs. Furthermore, some people may be allergic or sensitive to the ingredients in the enteric coating. Overall, enteric coating is important in drug delivery systems because it ensures the effective and safe distribution of pharmaceuticals to particular target locations inside the gastrointestinal tract, hence improving therapeutic efficacy.
