Fake diazepam tablets found in NSW

​Counterfeit (fake) diazepam from illicit sources has been found to contain other drugs (bromazolam, paracetamol and caffeine)

Photos of some of the counterfeit diazepam found in NSW. These fake tablets look like the Australian registered diazepam brand 'Antenex', with off-white tablets marked “DM | 5" with “G" on the reverse.

 
These fake tablets are similar to overseas brands of diazepam - yellow tablets marked “DAN | 5619" on one side and “5" on the reverse.

Know the risks

Counterfeit diazepam ('Valium') tablets may:

• Look the same as genuine local or overseas brands of diazepam.
• Contain more dangerous novel benzodiazepines, such as bromazolam.
• Contain no benzodiazepines. Some tablets tested contained paracetamol and caffeine.
• Be poorly manufactured, with strengths varying widely in the same batch.

Taking counterfeit diazepam can cause serious harm. The risk of harm is higher if you:

• Take tablets not purchased at a pharmacy as they are more likely to be fake.
• Take a higher dose.
• Use drugs alone.
• Use with other drugs (for example alcohol, opioids, ketamine, or GHB).
• Use a new batch.

Fake tablets appearing similar to other benzodiazepines such as alprazolam ('Xanax' and 'Mylan') remain in circulation.

Effects to look out for

• Difficulty speaking or walking, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slow breathing/snoring and skin turning blue.

If you see or experience these, get help immediately.

Getting help

If you or your friends see the warning signs of overdose:

• Seek help immediately from your nearest emergency department or call Triple Zero (000). You won't get into trouble for seeking medical care.
• 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 NUAA on 1800 644 413 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) to speak to a peer or visit NUAA for a range of resources.
• Call the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 for information on adverse effects from drugs.

Source: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/aod/public-drug-alerts/Pages/counterfeit-diazepam-may24.aspx

Emergency: If you are experiencing an emergency, please call an ambulance on 000, or if you need to speak to someone urgently please call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015.