The recall of the prescription-only anxiety medication was initiated by its distributor, Viatris, on March 17
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NEED TO KNOW
- One type of the prescription anxiety medication Xanax is being recalled nationwide
- 3 mg tablets of the medication, sold in 60-tablet bottles, were initially recalled by its distributor, Viatris, on March 17. On April 15, the tablets were recalled nationwide
- The affected medication was prescribed and distributed between Aug. 27, 2024 and May 29, 2025
One type of the commonly prescribed prescription anxiety medication Xanax has been recalled nationwide, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
3-milligram tablets of Xanax XR, the brand name for the drug alprazolam, sold in 60-tablet bottles were initially recalled by the distributor Viatris on March 17. On Wednesday, April 15, the pills were recalled nationwide after they "failed dissolution specifications," according to the FDA.
The FDA classified the recall as a Class II, indicating "a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote," per the agency.
Pills marked as part of lot number 8177156 are impacted by the recall. The medication will be marked with an expiration date of 02/28/2027.
Anyone who has been prescribed the affected pills should stop taking them immediately, and dispose of them safely.
Credit: Sarah Silbiger/Getty
The pills were distributed to patients between Aug 27, 2024, and May 29, 2025, per the California State Board of Pharmacy.
Xanax is typically prescribed to treat symptoms of anxiety associated with several mental health conditions. "It works by helping your nervous system calm down," per Cleveland Clinic. It is one of the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines in the U.S.
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PEOPLE has reached out to a representative for Viatris for comment.
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