Investigating the Impact of Tablet Coatings on Gastrointestinal Tract Residence Time and Drug Bioavailability: A Comparative Study of Different Coating Materials

Tablet coatings are crucial for optimizing pharmaceutical formulations by controlling drug release, stability, and bioavailability. The selection of coating material must be tailored to the specific pharmacokinetic properties and therapeutic goals of the drug. This study focuses on three major types of coatings: enteric polymers, lipid-based coatings, and nanoparticle coatings, each offering unique benefits for different drug delivery systems on Gastrointestinal (GSI). Enteric polymers protect drugs from gastric degradation, ensuring targeted release in the intestines, making them ideal for pH-sensitive drugs. Lipid-based coatings are effective for sustained-release formulations, providing controlled drug release over extended periods, which is particularly beneficial for managing chronic conditions. Nanoparticle coatings offer precise drug delivery, allowing for targeted treatment with reduced systemic side effects, and are especially valuable in oncology for delivering chemotherapeutic agents directly to tumor cells. The choice of coating material is guided by preclinical and clinical studies, which evaluate the physicochemical properties, solubility, stability, and permeability of coating materials under simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Advances in nanotechnology and predictive modeling are transforming drug delivery systems, providing opportunities for hybrid coatings that combine the strengths of different materials. These developments promise enhanced precision, scalability, and efficiency in drug formulation. This study highlights the importance of aligning coating properties with therapeutic goals and emphasizes the potential for hybrid systems, 3D printing, and nanotechnology to create more effective, patient-centric drug delivery solutions. Such innovations are expected to improve therapeutic outcomes, reduce dosing frequency, and enhance patient adherence, ultimately advancing the field of drug delivery and improving patient care.