Overdoses of alprazolam can be fatal. Most alprazolam deaths are associated with the concomitant use of other cns depressants, such as opiates, including methadone and OxyContin. Alprazolam is significantly more toxic in overdose than other benzodiazepines with higher rates of fatalities. A study in New Zealand found that alprazolam is almost 8 times more likely to result in death in overdose than other sedative hypnotics as a group, with higher rates of ICU admissions and mechanical ventilation. Combined use with tricyclic antidepressants, alcohol, or opiates increases the likelihood for severe toxicity and possible fatality.18-19

Morphine acts on the central nervous system, and overdose can cause respiratory depression, asphyxia and death. A person is especially at risk of death if morphine is administered with other opiates or CNS depressants, or with benzodiazepines, like alprazolam.

In June 2008, manufacturing errors may have led for this morphine to be distributed for consumption. Subsequent recalls were issued for additional lots of morphine and at least 30 other generic drugs manufactured by Ethex which may have contained up to twice the necessary amount of the active pharmaceutical ingredient.