Which coating type is primarily used to mask tastes and odors and improve stability by layering sugar?

• A. Compression Coated Tablets
• B. Gelatin Coated Tablets
• C. Film Coated Tablets
• D. Sugar Coated Tablets

Answer: (D)

Sugar coating creates a thick outer sugar layer around the tablet, which is ideal for masking the drug’s tastes and odors and can help protect the core during storage. The coating can be flavored and colored, and built up through multiple dipping and drying cycles to thoroughly envelop the tablet. This approach is specifically aimed at making the medicine more palatable while providing a protective barrier.

Other coating types serve different purposes: film coating uses a thin polymer film mainly to improve appearance, taste, and moisture resistance without adding much bulk; gelatin coating uses a gelatin shell that can encapsulate or protect the tablet but isn’t primarily about masking strong taste; compression coating adds an outer layer after the core is formed for purposes like separating incompatible ingredients or tailoring release. So the sugar-coated form is the one focused on masking taste and odor and layering sugar for added protection.