The government is now operating in accordance with the Guidance on Caretaker Conventions, pending the outcome of the 2025 federal election.
Consumers and health professionals are advised that Pfizer Australia, in consultation with the TGA, has initiated a recall of alprazolam 2 mg tablets (marketed as Xanax).
Alprazolam tablets are used to treat anxiety and panic disorder.
It has been identified that alprazolam 2 mg tablets in bottles of 50 marketed as Xanax have been supplied without child-resistant caps. Other brand names, as well as other dosages of Xanax, are not affected by this recall.
Please note that there is no concern regarding the quality or safety of this medicine, other than the absence of child-resistant packaging.
To correct this issue, Pfizer Australia has initiated a recall of all alprazolam 2 mg tablets in bottles of 50 marketed as Xanax, irrespective of batch number or expiry date.
Information for consumers
If you or some you care for is taking alprazolam tablets (marketed as Xanax) and you do not have a prescription to obtain replacement medicine, please visit your doctor to arrange a new prescription or discuss alternative treatments.
After that, return the alprazolam tablets to your pharmacy. A refund will be provided for any returned medicine.
You are reminded that all medicine should always be kept out of the reach of children, as stated on the product packaging.
If you have any questions or concerns about this issue, contact your health professional or Pfizer Australia on 1800 675 229.
Information for all health professionals
If you are treating a patient who is taking alprazolam tablets, advise them of this issue. You may need to provide a new prescription or discuss alternative treatments, before instructing them to return their medicine to their pharmacy.
Reassure patients that there is no other concern regarding the quality or safety of this medicine, but consider reminding them of the importance of keeping all medicine out of the reach of children.
If you have any questions or concerns about this issue, contact Pfizer Australia on 1800 675 229.
Information for pharmacists
Pfizer Australia has written to pharmacists providing further information about this issue, including details of the process for this recall.
Please inspect your stock and quarantine any affected products.
Before a patient returns a bottle of alprazolam (Xanax), check to ensure that they have another valid prescription that can be dispensed or advise them to see their doctor to ensure continuation of therapy.
Pfizer Australia will arrange credit for all refunds given.
Reassure patients that there is no other concern regarding the quality or safety of these medicines, but consider reminding them of the importance of keeping all medicine out of the reach of children.
If you have any questions or concerns about this issue, contact Pfizer Australia on 1800 675 229.
Reporting problems
Consumers and health professionals are encouraged to report problems with medicines or vaccines. Your report will contribute to the TGA's monitoring of these products.
The TGA cannot give advice about an individual's medical condition. You are strongly encouraged to talk with a health professional if you are concerned about a possible adverse event associated with a medicine or vaccine.