Certified Medication Aide Practice

The term "enteric-coated" refers to a specific type of medication that is coated in such a way that it is designed to dissolve in the intestines rather than in the stomach. This coating helps protect the medication from the acidic environment of the stomach, which can be important for several reasons.

For some medications, stomach acid can destroy the active ingredient or prevent the drug from being effective. By using an enteric coating, the medication only begins to dissolve when it reaches the more neutral pH of the intestines, allowing for better absorption and reducing potential irritation to the stomach lining.

This specific coating is especially useful for medications that are sensitive to stomach acid or can be irritating to the gastric mucosa. It also helps ensure that the medication is released where it will be most effective, maximizing therapeutic outcomes.

This understanding of enteric-coated medications is crucial for medication administration and patient education, as it ensures the proper use of these medications.