In response to the increasing illicit use of alprazolam and evidence of alprazolam dependence, alprazolam was up-scheduled from Schedule 4 to Schedule 8 of the Standard for the Uniform Scheduling of Medicines and Poisons on 1 February 2014.

An authority from the NSW Ministry of Health is required to prescribe alprazolam or flunitrazepam for
  • a drug dependent person or
  • a non-drug dependent person who is prescribed alprazolam or flunitrazepam continuously for more than 2 months.

To apply, complete the form  Application for authority to prescribe or supply a Schedule 8 drug - alprazolam or flunitrazepam (Updated form).

The up-scheduling of alprazolam to Schedule 8 applied to all forms and preparations of alprazolam. Currently available alprazolam brands include: Alprax, GenRx Alprazolam, and Kalma.

For further information or clarification contact the Duty Pharmaceutical Officer, Pharmaceutical Services, during business hours on (02) 9391 9944.​

Current as at: Wednesday 1 February 2023
Contact page owner: Pharmaceutical Services