Diazepam is an anxiolytic drug used to treat seizures, alcohol withdrawal, insomnia, RLS, and anxiety. Hoffmann-La Roche patented Diazepam in 1959. It has been among the most frequently prescribed medicines in the world since its launch in 1963. In the US, it was the best-selling medication between 1969 and 1983, selling more than 2 billion tablets in 1979 alone. This drug can also be used to relieve muscle spasms. You may take Diazepam to relieve your pain due to muscle spasms and resume your daily functioning.
Diazepam acts by calming the nerves and brain. It belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines. Diazepam is a controlled substance drug available as the trade name drug Valium. Diazepam is also available as a generic drug. This drug enhances the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA.
Diazepam is primarily used to treat panic disorders, alcohol withdrawal, severe anxiety, and seizures. It is also used to provide sedation before medical surgeries. Additionally, Diazepam is also used to treat the following health conditions:
Avoid consuming grapefruit in any form while using Diazepam unless your pharmacist or doctor says it would be safe for your consumption. Grapefruit consumption can increase the risk of side effects with this drug. Ask the pharmacist or doctor for further details. Alcohol, along with Diazepam, can cause a synergistic increment of the hypotensive characteristics of benzodiazepines. Thus, one must avoid drinking alcohol while on Diazepam.
Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you have or have ever had
Diazepam must not be used in infants younger than six months of age.
Take Diazepam by mouth regardless of food as your doctor directs. While using the liquid form of this drug, carefully measure the dose with a spoon or particular measuring device. Do not use a household spoon, as you might not get the correct amount. It is necessary to take the right dosage of Diazepam. If you use the concentrated solution of Diazepam, use the medicine dropper given and mix the measured dose with a small amount of soft food or liquid ( such as pudding or applesauce ). Take all of this mixture at once. Do not store this mixture for later consumption.
Dosage for anxiety
Depending on your response to this drug, the doctor will slowly increase your dose as needed. Your body processes Diazepam slowly.
The common side effects of Diazepam are trouble with coordination and sleepiness. Severe side effects are rare. These include an increased risk of seizures and decreased breathing. Diazepam has a range of other side effects that are common to benzodiazepines, such as:
Occasionally, agitation or excitement might occur. Long-term use can result in dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms if one reduces the dose. Abrupt stopping after usage over a long period can be potentially hazardous. After stopping, cognitive problems may stay for six months or longer. It is not suggested while pregnancy or breastfeeding as these side effects can harm the fetus.
