Which statement about crushing enteric-coated tablets is correct?

Which statement about crushing enteric-coated tablets is correct?

• A. They can be crushed if needed with extra water
• B. They should not be crushed due to clog risk
• C. They dissolve easily when crushed
• D. They are always safe to crush

Answer: (B)

Enteric-coated tablets are designed to pass through the stomach intact to protect the stomach from the drug and to release it in the small intestine. Crushing these tablets destroys that protective coating, which can cause the medication to release in the stomach instead of the intended site, increasing the risk of gastric irritation and creating unpredictable absorption. In addition, the resulting particle size and coating disruption can contribute to clogging in enteral feeding tubes, making administration through a tube problematic. For these reasons, the statement that they should not be crushed due to clog risk is the best answer. If a patient cannot swallow or requires tube administration, use an alternative formulation or route under clinical guidance.

Enteric-coated tablets are designed to pass through the stomach intact to protect the stomach from the drug and to release it in the small intestine. Crushing these tablets destroys that protective coating, which can cause the medication to release in the stomach instead of the intended site, increasing the risk of gastric irritation and creating unpredictable absorption. In addition, the resulting particle size and coating disruption can contribute to clogging in enteral feeding tubes, making administration through a tube problematic. For these reasons, the statement that they should not be crushed due to clog risk is the best answer. If a patient cannot swallow or requires tube administration, use an alternative formulation or route under clinical guidance.