# Can Sinemet CR (carbidopa-levodopa extended-release) be crushed?

Canonical: [https://followyourswallow.com/medications/can-i-crush-carbidopa-levodopa-extended-release](https://followyourswallow.com/medications/can-i-crush-carbidopa-levodopa-extended-release)

## Direct answer

**NO. Do not crush.** Sinemet CR is on the ISMP “Do Not Crush” list as extended-release (the ISMP note indicates the scored tablet may be broken in half without affecting release, but not crushed). For Rytary, FDA labeling says do not chew, divide, or crush, though the capsule may be opened and the entire contents sprinkled on a small amount of applesauce and consumed immediately.

Formulation: Extended-release tablet (Sinemet CR) or capsule (Rytary)

## What to ask the pharmacist

Ask the pharmacist which ER product you have and whether the label-approved option for it (halving a scored Sinemet CR tablet or the Rytary applesauce sprinkle method) applies.

## Verification

- Source type: ISMP Do Not Crush guidance
- Source note: ISMP “Do Not Crush” list (Sinemet CR); FDA labeling for Rytary (sprinkle administration)
- Source checked: 2026-06-10


## Safety

Confirm with your pharmacist before changing how any medication is taken. Match the exact drug, strength, dosage form, release mechanism, manufacturer or NDC, and imprint. A pill image alone is not enough.