Enteric capsules are designed to withstand the acidic environment of the stomach and dissolve in the alkaline environment of the small intestine. Specifically, the enteric capsules are coated with a material that resists the acidic conditions in the stomach and only dissolves when it reaches a higher pH level in the small intestine.
Once the
enteric capsules reach the small intestine, the coating dissolves and the contents of the capsule are released. This allows the drug or supplement to be absorbed by the body in the small intestine, where it can be used more effectively.
It is important to note that the exact location in the small intestine where an enteric capsule dissolves may vary depending on factors such as a person's digestive system and the specific type of enteric capsule used. Generally, however, enteric capsules are designed to dissolve in the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine.
What are enteric capsules made of?
Enteric capsules are usually two-part gelatin or vegetarian capsules filled with medications or supplements and coated with a special material that resists the acidic environment of the stomach. Such enteric coatings are usually made of polymers such as cellulose acetate phthalate or hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalate.
These polymers are designed to be stable and insoluble at low pH values (such as those found in the stomach), but dissolve and release their contents at higher pH values (such as those found in the small intestine). Enteric coatings also help protect a drug or supplement from being broken down or destroyed by stomach acid, which can reduce the product's effectiveness.
In addition to the enteric coating, the contents of enteric capsules can vary widely depending on the drug or supplement being delivered. Some common ingredients in enteric capsules include acid-sensitive medications, such as certain antibiotics, and certain types of dietary supplements, such as fish oil or probiotics.
Enteric capsules are designed to protect the medications or supplements they contain from being broken down by stomach acid and enzymes. The enteric coating allows the capsule to pass intact through the acidic environment of the stomach and onto the small intestine, which has an alkaline pH for better absorption of medications or supplements.
The efficacy of enteric capsules may vary depending on the drug or supplement being delivered and the individual's digestive system. However, enteric capsules are particularly effective for drugs that are sensitive to stomach acid or need to be released in specific parts of the digestive tract. For example, some drugs may irritate or damage the gastric lining if they are not protected by an enteric coating.
Enteric capsules are also used in certain dietary supplements, such as fish oil or probiotics, which are sensitive to stomach acid and need to be released in the small intestine for optimal absorption.
It is important to note that enteric capsules are not suitable for all medications or supplements. Your healthcare provider can advise you on whether enteric capsules are suitable for your specific needs and can provide guidance on the appropriate use and dosage of
enteric capsules.