Which statement is true about enteric-coated tablets?

• A. They must not be crushed or mixed with foods
• B. They must be crushed for faster absorption
• C. They must be stored in the freezer
• D. They are always chewed before swallowing

Answer: (A)

Enteric-coated tablets are designed with a protective coating that resists stomach acid and only dissolves in the intestines. This keeps the drug from being released in the stomach, which can protect the stomach lining or prevent the drug from being inactivated by stomach acid.

Because the coating is what controls where and when the drug is released, crushing the tablet or mixing it with foods would break or bypass that coat. That would make the drug release in the stomach instead of the small intestine, potentially irritating the stomach, reducing effectiveness, or causing more side effects. Swallowing the tablet whole ensures it reaches the intended absorption site intact.

The other statements don’t fit: enteric-coated tablets aren’t specifically stored in the freezer, and they shouldn’t be chewed or crushed before swallowing.