An enteric-coated formulation is designed to dissolve in the intestines rather than the stomach.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Sometimes
• D. Not recommended

Answer: (A)

Enteric coatings are pH-sensitive barriers that resist dissolution in the acidic environment of the stomach and only dissolve when they reach the higher pH of the small intestine. This design lets the drug pass through the stomach intact and release in the intestines, protecting the drug from stomach acid or preventing irritation to the stomach lining. Because of this purpose-built behavior, the statement is correct. The other options don’t fit the intended mechanism, since an enteric-coated product is not meant to dissolve in the stomach, isn’t described as only sometimes effective, and isn’t not recommended.