Aspirin in the form of enteric coated tablet

Question:

Aspirin in the form of enteric-coated tablet disintegrates in the small intestine not the stomach, but it also is recommended eating immediately after meals, and drinking more water to prevent stomach irritation. What is the reason?

Answer:

Aspirin (aspirin) in a film coated tablet  (enteric-coated) made with the purpose of  reducing abdominal discomfort caused by the drug directly exposed stomach which can cause irritation to the stomach.

However, the symptoms of stomach irritation and increased risks of bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract is also a pharmacologic effect of aspirin. (Aspirin reduce the synthesis of prostaglandins which protects the stomach wall and inhibit acid secretion.)

Thus, all dosage forms of aspirin including enteric coated tablet may increase the risk of bleeding in the stomach. Therefore it need to be eaten immediately after a meal and drinking more water.

References:

1. Tatro DS. A to Z Drug Facts. 8th ed. Missouri: Wolters Kluwer Health, 2007.

2. Weitz JI. Blood coagulation and anticoagulant, fibrinolytic, and antiplatelet drugs. In: Brunton L, Chabner B, Knollman B. editors. Goodman & Gilman's the Pharmacological Basis of therapeutics. 12th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2011; p868.