Enteric coating is a medical term that refers to a substance that surrounds a drug or supplement to protect it from stomach acids and ensure it reaches the small intestine before being absorbed. The word is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /ˈɛntərɪk ˈkoʊtɪŋ/, where the first syllable is pronounced as "en-ter-ik" and the second syllable is pronounced as "koht-ing". The letters "er" in the first syllable are pronounced as /ɛr/, and the letter "o" in the second syllable is pronounced as /oʊ/. Understanding the spelling of medical terms is crucial for effective communication in the healthcare field.
Enteric coating refers to a protective layer or coating applied to oral medications or supplements to prevent their immediate dissolution or degradation in the acidic environment of the stomach. This coating is designed to remain intact upon entering the stomach but to dissolve or disintegrate in the alkaline environment of the intestines.
The primary purpose of an enteric coating is to protect sensitive or irritant substances, such as certain drugs or supplements, from being released prematurely in the stomach. This is particularly important when dealing with medications that can cause stomach irritation, discomfort, or reduced effectiveness if not properly protected. By delaying dissolution until the coated product reaches the intestines, enteric coatings can help ensure that the medication is released in the intended site of action.
Enteric coatings are commonly made from a combination of polymers, plasticizers, and other additives. These materials are carefully selected to provide resistance against stomach acid while allowing dissolution and absorption in the intestines. The composition of the enteric coating can vary depending on the specific medication or supplement being coated, the desired release profile, and the manufacturer's formulation.
Overall, enteric coating serves as a mechanism to improve the efficacy, absorption, and tolerability of medications that otherwise might be adversely affected by stomach acid. It allows for targeted release and optimal bioavailability, providing a more controlled and predictable release in the intestines for improved therapeutic outcomes.
The word "enteric" in "enteric coating" is derived from the Greek word "enteron", which means "intestine". The term "enteric" is used in medicine to refer to anything related to the intestines.
The word "coating" simply refers to a layer covering something. So, "enteric coating" essentially means a layer or covering that is specifically designed to reach or target the intestines. In pharmaceutical terminology, enteric coatings are used to protect medications from the acidic environment of the stomach, ensuring that they are released and absorbed in the intestines instead.