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Extended-release medicines

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Extended-release medicines

Extended-release medicines slowly release medicine into the body. This reduces how fast the body absorbs the medicine. There may be three benefits to this:

  • The medicine is in the body for a longer time.
  • Side effects may be less intense.
  • You don't have to take the medicine as often.

Extended-release medicines should never be crushed or chewed. Some of them can be broken in two. Ask your pharmacist about this.

Extended-release medicines also are called modified-release, prolonged-release, controlled-release, controlled-delivery, slow-release, and sustained-release medicines.

Delayed-release medicines are not the same. They release the active ingredients at a certain time after the medicine is taken.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff

Clinical Review Board
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. WebMD Ignite, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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