Xanax recall sparks confusion and discussion about its benefits and risks

Plus, a social media trend about anxiety coping strategies was met with mixed reactions.

After the Food and Drug Administration recalled a batch of Xanax, a brand name of alprazolam that’s prescribed to treat anxiety, some social media users falsely claimed that all Xanax had been recalled, while others discussed the medication’s benefits and risks. Meanwhile, social media users expressed mixed opinions about an online “anxiety bag” trend, sparking discussion about anxiety coping tools.

Given these conversations, communicators may share information about the Xanax recall, plus other anxiety treatment options and management tips.

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What’s trending nationally in conversations about mental health

In the past week, articles reported that the FDA and Viatris, a pharmaceutical company, recalled 51 bottles of extended-release Xanax. Viatris said that the tablets in the recalled bottles may not dissolve in the body as expected, impacting how the medication is released and absorbed. No adverse events have been reported. Social media users across platforms expressed alarm, with some falsely claiming that all Xanax had been recalled. The news also sparked more general discussion about alprazolam. While some said that the medication helped them manage panic attacks and debilitating social anxiety, others warned that it can be habit-forming and shared personal stories about experiencing withdrawal symptoms when stopping alprazolam after long-term use.

On April 9, the New York Post published an article about an online trend in which young social media users share what’s in their “anxiety bags,” sometimes called “panic pouches.” The article noted that the bags may be filled with fidget toys, essential oils, and other tools that the individuals say help them manage stress and anxiety symptoms. Many commenters responding to the article mocked young people who carry anxiety bags, alleging that today’s teens and young adults are “weak” and shouldn’t need anxiety coping tools. Others defended the practice, saying that it’s helpful to have anxiety coping tools in addition to therapy and medication, especially in potentially stressful environments like school or the workplace.

On March 24, a New Mexico jury found Meta guilty of misleading users about the safety of its social media platforms, which allowed sexual predators to contact minors. Many social media users celebrated the ruling, sharing stories about how content on Meta’s platforms caused their children to experience depression and anxiety. Some argued that social media platforms don’t need features that protect children’s safety and mental health and that it’s up to caregivers to monitor children’s social media use.

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Recommendations for public health professionals

The Infodemiology.com team will provide messaging recommendations in response to some of the trending narratives outlined above. These helpful tips can be used when creating content, updating web and FAQ pages, and developing strategy for messaging about mental health.

In response to questions about the Xanax recall, communicators may reassure individuals that the recall was limited to a single batch of medication. Messaging may encourage individuals whose Xanax matches the recalled batch to talk to their doctor or pharmacist about next steps, as experts warn against discontinuing medication without medical guidance. Discussion about alprazolam’s benefits and risks provides an opportunity for communicators to encourage individuals experiencing anxiety and panic attacks to talk to a health care provider about the best treatment option for them. General messaging may highlight the importance of taking any medication only as directed, as misusing certain medications like alprazolam can lead to dependence.

Conversations about experiencing anxiety are frequently mocked online. Reactions to anxiety bags provide an opportunity to explain that just like physical health conditions, mental health conditions like anxiety are real and can significantly impact people’s daily lives. Sharing tips for fighting mental health stigma is recommended. Messaging may also outline the types of anxiety disorders and treatment options, which may include therapy and medication. Communicators may circulate directories where people can search for mental health providers who specialize in anxiety, local support groups, mental health hospitals, and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Messaging may include tips for coping with anxiety and preventing or stopping panic attacks.