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Valium Information
Diazepam is a member
of the benzodiazepine family. Benzodiazepines are sedatives that
cause dose-related depression of the central nervous system. They
are useful in treating anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and muscle
spasms.
Diazepam is used for the short-term relief of symptoms related to
anxiety disorders. Diazepam is also used for the treatment of
agitation, tremors, delirium, seizures, and hallucinations as a
result of alcohol withdrawal. Diazepam is also used for relief of
muscle spasms in certain neurological diseases. Diazepam is used to
abort active seizures and can be combined with other drugs in
treating severe recurrent seizures.
Diazepam may be taken with or without food. Diazepam is metabolized
by the liver and excreted mainly by the kidney. Dosages of diazepam
may need to be lowered in patients with abnormal kidney function.
Valium Precautions
Alcohol should be avoided by patients taking benzodiazepines.
Diazepam can lead to addiction (dependency), especially at higher
dosages over prolonged periods of time. Because of diazepam's
addicting potential, dosages should never be increased by the
patient. In patients addicted to diazepam, abrupt discontinuation of
the medicine can lead to symptoms of withdrawal (insomnia,
headaches, nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness, sweating, anxiety, and
fatigue). Seizures can occur in more severe cases of withdrawal.
Consequently, patients on diazepam for extended periods of time
should slowly taper the medication under a doctor's supervision
rather than abruptly stopping the medication. Benzodiazepines, such
as diazepam, can cause fetal problems and should not be used in
pregnancy or in breast feeding mothers. Tagamet can prolong the
effects of diazepam and dosages may need to be decreased when these
drugs are used together.
Valium Side Effects
The most frequent side effects of diazepam are drowsiness, fatigue,
and ataxia (loss of balance). Rarely, diazepam causes a paradoxical
reaction with excitability, muscle spasm, lack of sleep, and rage.
Confusion, depression, speech problems, and double vision are also
rare side effects of diazepam. |
