Pennsylvania-based Viatris, Inc. voluntarily recalled its 60-tablet bottles of Xanax. The recall was due to 'failed dissolution specifications,' meaning the pills may not dissolve correctly and release their active ingredient at the expected rate.
This could mean someone taking Xanax may receive too much or too little of the medication, raising the risk of overdoses or intensifying feelings of anxiety. ' Recalled bottles were distributed nationwide between August 27, 2024, and May 29, 2025, according to the California State Board of Pharmacy. The lot number was 8177156, with bottles containing 60, 3mg extended-release pills.
The FDA noted the expiration date was February 28, 2027. Xanax is the brand name for alprazolam, which belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines that act as sedatives to slow the nervous system down. The drug is typically prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders and provide short-term relief from situational anxiety, such as giving a speech or flying on an airplane.
About 16 million prescriptions for the drug are filled every year in the US. The Xanax pills in the recall were extended-release, meaning they release the active ingredients slowly into the body over a prolonged period rather than all at once. Xanax is the latest drug to be pulled from shelves due to failed dissolution.
The California State Board said the recall was issued 'out of an abundance of caution,' adding it is not aware of any reports of adverse reactions. Consumers can call their local pharmacy to see if their Xanax prescription is part of the recall. It is unclear how many bottles were affected or how many consumers may have received them, and the specific adverse health consequences from the failed dissolution have not been detailed.