DRUG ALERT  – Counterfeit Alprazolam circulating in NSW

Know the risks

• Taking non-prescribed ‘alprazolam’ can cause serious harm. The risk of harm is higher if you:
  • Take a counterfeit product
  • Take a higher dose
  • Mix different sedative drugs. Alcohol, benzos and opioids are very dangerous to combine.
  • Use drugs when you are alone
• The tablets have variable appearance and can look like a variety of local or overseas alprazolam 2mg brands, such as Kalma, Xanax, Mylan, Sandoz. Products not purchased at pharmacies are high risk of being counterfeit.
• Counterfeit alprazolam is often poorly manufactured, and the ingredients and amounts can vary substantially, even within the same batch.
• Testing of counterfeit alprazolam has shown that most counterfeit tablets do not contain alprazolam, instead they contain unregistered, illicit benzodiazepines and other drugs (e.g. stimulants), which can be more harmful.
• Counterfeit benzos have been associated with serious harm and death.

Effects to look out for

• Difficulty speaking or walking, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slow breathing/snoring and skin turning blue.
• Be on the lookout for unexpected effects.

Getting help

If you see the warning signs of overdose:

• Seek help immediately from your nearest emergency department or call Triple Zero (000).
• Start CPR if someone is not breathing.

Support and advice 

For free and confidential advice:

• Call Alcohol and Drug Information Service  (ADIS) on 1800 250 015 at any time 24/7. Start a Web Chat with an ADIS counsellor Mon-Fri, 8.30am-5pm.
• Call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 for advice on adverse effects from drugs.
• Visit Your Room  for information on benzos.

Written by Mitch Lamb