What is the primary consideration when selecting a coating material for a tablet?

When selecting a coating material for a tablet, the primary consideration is compatibility with the tablet core. This is crucial because the coating must adhere well to the core formulation and not adversely affect its properties, such as the drug release profile, stability, or bioavailability. If the coating material is incompatible, it could lead to issues such as delamination, uneven drug release, or altered efficacy, ultimately compromising the quality and therapeutic effectiveness of the final product.

While factors like cost, availability, and coating thickness are also important in the overall decision-making process, they do not take precedence over ensuring that the coating material is chemically and physically compatible with the tablet core. This compatibility is essential for achieving the desired performance of the tablet and ensuring that the medication is delivered effectively to the patient.