What does it mean if a tablet is described as "scored"?

When a tablet is described as "scored," it means that the tablet has a groove or line running across its surface, which allows it to be split into smaller, more manageable doses. This scoring feature is designed to facilitate the division of the tablet, making it easier for individuals to take an exact half dose if needed. This is particularly important for medications that require precise dosing adjustments due to therapeutic ranges or side effects.

The other options do not accurately describe the purpose or characteristic of a scored tablet. "Taking with food" doesn’t relate to the physical structure of the tablet. A coating for easier swallowing refers to a different aspect of tablet formulation, as does the mention of effervescence, which describes a tablet that dissolves in water and releases carbon dioxide. None of these features correspond to the significance of a tablet being scored.