What is compression coating used for? answer this question from the book "Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery Systems" chapter 8 and 9.

Compression coating is primarily used in the pharmaceutical industry to create controlled-release dosage forms or to protect sensitive ingredients in a tablet formulation. It involves the application of a non-functional coating over a core tablet using a compression process.

Purposes of Compression Coating:

1. Controlled Release: Compression coating allows for the formulation of tablets that release their active ingredients at a controlled rate over an extended period. This is beneficial for drugs that require sustained action in the body.

2. Protection of Sensitive Ingredients: Compression coating can protect sensitive drugs from environmental factors such as moisture, light, and oxygen. This ensures that the active ingredients remain stable and effective until they reach the site of action.

3. Taste Masking: The coating can provide a barrier to mask unpleasant tastes of certain medications, making them more palatable for patients.

4. Targeted Delivery: Certain compression-coated formulations can be designed to disintegrate at specific sites within the gastrointestinal tract, enhancing the effectiveness of the drug by directing it to the intended site.

5. Layering for Multi-API Formulations: Compression coating allows for the layering of different active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), enabling combination therapy in a single dosage form.

These applications make compression coating a valuable technique in the development of pharmaceutical dosage forms, ensuring efficacy, stability, and patient compliance.