DRUG INDEX
GENERIC NAME: diazepam BRAND NAME: Valium
DRUG CLASS: 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.
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes
PREPARATIONS: Tablets (2mg, 5mg, 10mg).
STORAGE: Diazepam should be stored at room temperature in a tightly closed container.
PRESCRIBED FOR: 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.
DOSING: 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.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: 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. Tagamet can prolong the effects of diazepam and dosages may need to be decreased when these drugs are used together.
PREGNANCY: Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam, can cause fetal problems and should not be used in pregnancy.
NURSING MOTHERS: Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam, can cause fetal problems and should not be used in breast feeding mothers.
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.
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