The majority of extended-release products should not be crushed or chewed, although there are some newer slow-release tablet formulations available that are scored and can be divided or halved (e.g., Toprol XL). ... Some patients have difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules; some dislike the taste.

What happens if you crush a time-release pill?

If a slow-release tablet is crushed, split, or chewed, a large amount of the medicine may be released all at once. This could cause serious harm. The consumer involved in this incident had cancer of the esophagus and wished to remain at home.

Why is the timed release capsule should not be crushed?

Sustained-release drugs also should not be crushed or chewed before swallowing because doing so will cause the dangerously rapid absorption of a large dose that was intended to be released slowly over many hours.