Which of the following should not be crushed and given through the feeding tube?

• A. Enteric coated
• B. Immediate release
• C. Liquid suspension
• D. Orally disintegrating tablet

Answer: (A)

Enteric-coated tablets are designed to pass through the stomach intact and release the drug in the intestine. Crushing destroys that protective coating, causing the medication to release in the stomach instead of the intended location. This can lead to premature absorption, stomach irritation or damage for drugs meant to act in the intestines, altered or unpredictable absorption, and potential safety issues. In a feeding tube scenario, maintaining the coating’s integrity is crucial, so crushing an enteric-coated tablet is avoided. The other forms listed do not rely on that protective coating to the same extent and are generally considered acceptable for tube administration with appropriate preparation, whereas the enteric-coated form should not be crushed.