Can enteric-coated pills be crushed before administration?

Enteric-coated pills are specifically designed to resist the acidic environment of the stomach and dissolve only in the more neutral pH of the intestines. This coating protects the medication from being broken down too early, ensuring that it reaches the intended area of absorption effectively. Crushing enteric-coated pills before administration disrupts this protective mechanism, which can lead to the medication being released prematurely in the stomach rather than the intestines.

As a result, crushing these pills can significantly affect the medication's effectiveness, possibly leading to reduced absorption or increased side effects. It’s crucial to administer enteric-coated formulations whole to maintain their intended therapeutic action and safety profile.