The use of over-the-counter enzyme tablets might not be beneficial to patients because the enzymes within the product are digested before they can be used.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Both the statement and the reason are correct and related.Prescription enzymes are more likely to have protective features which prevent the active ingredient from being digested prior to the point at which it can be used.For example,prescription pancreatic enzymes have a special enteric coating preventing the enzyme from exposure to gastric juices.An example of an OTC product that has such a protective feature is lactase which is effective for lactose intolerant because it is either added to or taken with lactose-containing foods.

The Use of Over-The-Counter Enzyme Tablets Might Not Be Beneficial