How to Abbreviate Delayed Release

Several abbreviations can denote a delayed-release medication.

Many medications come in delayed-release versions to even out their bloodstream concentration. Rather than resulting in high concentration peaks after you've taken a dose followed by lower concentration valleys before your next dose is due, this form provides a steadier amount of the drug. Another reason for extended release medications is to decrease the number of daily doses, thus increasing overall compliance to the prescription. Lastly, some medications are designed for a slow release so they do not dissolve for absorption until they have reached the small intestine, which prevents stomach irritation.

Instructions

1. Use the designation "XR" for the term "eXtended Release."

2. Use the abbreviation "XL" for the term "eXtended Length."

3. Use the designation "LA" in place of the term "Long Acting."

4. Use the term "EC" for "Enteric Coated" --- those medications with a delayed absorption until they reach the small intestine. This term is interchangeable with "ER," or "Enteric Release."

5. Use the abbreviation "SR" in place of the term "Slow Release."

Tips & Warnings

• Often, generic medications required by insurance companies or your budget are unavailable in delayed release form. You can still obtain the necessary medication but must take the medication three to four times a day, as opposed to once or twice a day in extended form.

• Never crush or split medications with these delayed release abbreviations after their names. These medications are designed to provide dosage in gradual amounts as opposed to one large dose.

References

• Pharmacology; Table of Contents and Programmed Study: Pharmacology Content, Practice Questions and Practice Exams; Michael Gordon, Ph.D.
• RXList: Drugs A - Z
• National Library of Medicine/National Institute of Health: Daily Med
• "The Journal of Applied Research in Clinical and Experimental Therapies"; Medication Compliance Research: Still So Far to Go; Albert I. Wertheimer, PhD, MBA, et al.

Resources

• Food and Drug Administration; For Consumers; Protecting Yourself