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 & DanceWize NSW's PeerLine on 1800 644 413 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) to speak to a peer or visit NUAA/DanceWize NSW for a factsheet on fake benzos.
• Call the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 for information on adverse effects from drugs.