Medication Recall Alert: Mylan Pharmaceuticals Recalls Xanax

medication recall, xanax, mylan pharmaceuticals

Mylan Pharmaceuticals has issued a medication recall for one batch of Xanax (alprazolam).  According to the recall notice posted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the affected lot may contain a foreign substance.  Read on to learn more about the recall and what you can do to stay safe if you take Xanax.

Information about Xanax Medication Recall

Mylan Pharmaceuticals is voluntarily recalling the lot of Alprazolam Tablets, USP C-IV 0.5 mg.  The recall is due to potential contamination with a foreign substance.  The FDA recall notice states that there is a small chance that consumers taking the affected Xanax could experience infection as a result.  Mylan is not responding to questions about what the foreign substance is, or why it may increase infection risk.

The details of the product in this medication recall includes:

  • Alprazolam Tablets USP C-IV 0.5 mg
  • 500-count bottles
  • Lot number 8082708
  • Expiration date of September 2020

The lot was distributed nationwide between July and August 2019.  Mylan has notified customers and distributors and has requested that all affected Xanax be returned.  Consumers who take Xanax and are concerned about the recall can contact Mylan Customer Relations.  Any adverse events should be reported to a healthcare provider.

Consumers can also report adverse events through the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online or by mail.

Why is the Xanax Recall a Big Deal?

There always seems to be some medication recall in the news, so you may be wondering why the Xanax recall is a big deal.  Xanax is the single most prescribed medication for psychiatric disorders in the United States.  Each year, more than 40 million people receive a prescription for Xanax.  Xanax treats the symptoms of a variety of psychiatric disorders including:

  • Anxiety disorders
  • Panic disorders
  • Depression

Xanax treats symptoms by decreasing abnormal chemicals in the brain that cause excitement.  It has a calming effect on the brain and the central nervous system, and can help restore chemical balance.  At the same time, Xanax boosts the brain’s production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is a natural neurotransmitter that blocks certain signals and decreases activity.

Xanax is in a drug class called benzodiazepines.  Benzodiazepines can be habit-forming, and people who use Xanax should do so with caution.  Other benzodiazepines are Valium, Ativan, and Klonopin.  All of these drugs can produce a euphoric feeling if they are taken in high doses.  Xanax is a Schedule IV controlled substance, which means the potential for abuse or dependence is a real concern.

It is illegal to give away, trade, or sell Xanax to other people.  It is also illegal to possess Xanax without a prescription.

Should Consumers be Concerned about this Medication Recall?

Any medication recall is a reason for consumers to be concerned.  If you take Xanax, you should certainly be aware of the possible risks.  Unfortunately, Mylan is not disclosing the source of the possible contamination, which means consumers cannot really gauge the level of risk on their own.  The best thing for consumers to do is to contact their healthcare provider if they experience any adverse events related to a prescription medication.

If you develop an infection while taking Xanax and believe the drug to be the cause, you may also find it helpful to contact Drug and Device Watch.  Our legal professionals are on top of drug and device recalls.  We have experience helping clients understand their legal rights after an injury due to a prescription medication.  What’s more, we have the resources that clients need to protect their legal rights.

If you have questions or concerns about a device or medication recall, contact Drug and Device Watch.  We offer every potential client a free legal consultation.  Get the answers you need to keep you and your family safe.  Call us toll free at 1-888-458-6825, or reach out online through our contact form.

 

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