Disclosed is a misuse preventative, controlled release formulation comprising a core comprising a first layer and a second layer. The core comprises a superabsorbent material (for example, polycarbophil), and a plurality of controlled release microparticles having a pharmaceutically active agent (for example, an opioid analgesic) disposed within the core. When crushed, either intentionally or accidentally, and exposed to an aqueous medium, the superabsorbent material present in the core swells to create a hard gel that traps the microparticles. The hard gel and microparticles provide controlled release of the pharmaceutically active agent. Also disclosed is a method of using the misuse preventative, controlled release formulation to deliver a pharmaceutically active agent to a mammal, for example, a human, in need thereof.
