Urgent Product Recall: Valium (Diazepam) 5mg Tablets By Roche – Evidence of Medicine Tampering

If you, or someone you provide care for, takes Valium 5mg tablets this recall is important. 

The recall impacts the 5mg Diazepam tablet by manufacturer Roche. The recall applies to the tablets sold in the 50-tablet blister pack.

Valium 5mg tablets are used to treat anxiety disorders, alcohol withdrawal symptoms and muscle spasms. All batches of the 50-tablet blister pack are recalled via the Therapeutic Goods Administration.

Why is the product recalled? 

The recall is in place due to evidence of medicine tampering. This has resulted in other non-Valium medicines potentially being mixed in with the boxed Valium. Blister pack sheets containing other products may have been substituted into some packs. These substituted medicines may include BTC Paracetamol Codeine, BTC Rosuvastatin 10mg tablets and Apotex-Pantoprazole 40mg tablets.

What is the risk? 

If a patient has an affected pack, there is a risk that they will not have an adequate supply of their medicine. A Valium taker could also ingest the incorrect medicine which could have serious health consequences.

What should I do if I have this product? 

• Immediately return to the pharmacy (of purchase if possible) bringing any unused medication and your script with you.
• A generic product will be provided in replacement.
• A refund will be provided where applicable.

According to the Product Safety Australia Website: If you are prescribed Valium 5mg tablets, supplied in 50-tablet blister packs, do not take them. Please promptly return any unused medicine to a pharmacy for a refund and to arrange alternative medicine. You may need to bring a valid prescription/repeat. If possible, return your Valium to the same pharmacy from which it was dispensed.

There are a number of generic diazepam products that are bioequivalent to Valium. These generic products contain the same active ingredient and in most situations, can be safely substituted for any returned Valium. These products will be offered until the recall is finished.

Look for discrepancies 

Please note that all tablets or capsules supplied in the Valium pack should be identical. Any product names on the blister pack should match those on the external packaging. If you notice any discrepancies with your medicine, talk to your pharmacist.

If you have any questions or concerns about this issue, talk to your health professional or contact Roche the manufacturer.