About Valium (Generic Name: Diazepam)
| Medication Name: | Valium (Diazepam) |
| Dosage: | 5mg, 10mg |
| Price: | from $1.24 per pill |
| Where to Buy | Get Start Now |
Overview Diazepam (Valium)
Valium, also called diazepam, is frequently used to manage anxiety, treat alcohol withdrawal, and control seizures. It is also prescribed for muscle spasms and to help relax the body before certain medical procedures. Diazepam calms the brain and nerves and is classified as a benzodiazepine.
How to Use
Before you start taking diazepam, it’s important to read the instructions provided by your pharmacist. Make sure to read them again every time you get a refill. If anything is unclear, ask your doctor or pharmacist for help.
Take diazepam by mouth, with or without food, as your doctor advises. If you’re using the liquid version, measure your dose carefully using the special measuring device that comes with it. Avoid using a regular kitchen spoon, as it may not give the correct dose.
If you’re using the concentrated solution, mix the measured dose with a small amount of liquid or soft food like applesauce or pudding. Consume the mixture immediately and don’t save any of it for later.
Your dosage depends on your medical condition, age, and how well your body responds to treatment. Do not take more than your doctor prescribes, as it will not improve your condition faster and may increase the chances of side effects. If your doctor tells you to stop the medication, follow their instructions closely to avoid any withdrawal symptoms like shaking, cramps, sweating, or seizures.
If you’ve been using diazepam for a long time or in high doses, your doctor may gradually lower your dose to avoid withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, the medication may lose its effectiveness over time. Let your doctor know if it doesn’t seem to be working as well.
Be aware that diazepam can sometimes be addictive, especially for people with a history of substance abuse. If you have concerns, ask your doctor for more details.
Steer clear of grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking this medication, as it may raise the likelihood of side effects. Check with your doctor if you’re unsure whether it’s safe for you.
To benefit most from this medication, take it regularly at the same time each day.
Side Effects
Some common side effects of diazepam include drowsiness, dizziness, tiredness, blurred vision, or trouble maintaining balance.
Though most people experience no serious side effects, notify your doctor immediately if you encounter any of the following:
- Changes in mood or memory
- Confusion or agitation
- Hallucinations
- Difficulty speaking or walking
- Muscle weakness or tremors
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin
- Signs of infection, such as a persistent sore throat or fever
In rare cases, diazepam can cause slow or shallow breathing, which may require immediate medical attention.
Severe allergic reactions are uncommon, but seek help right away if you notice symptoms like a rash, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
For U.S. residents, report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. In Canada, side effects can be reported to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Warnings and Precautions
Before starting diazepam, let your doctor know if you are allergic to it or to other benzodiazepines, such as oxazepam or temazepam. Also, inform your doctor about any other allergies you may have, as some ingredients in the medication may cause allergic reactions.
It’s important to share your medical history with your doctor, especially if you have conditions like:
- Myasthenia gravis
- Conditions like COPD or sleep apnea could be affected by diazepam
- Mental health issues like depression or suicidal thoughts
- Substance use disorders
- Glaucoma
- Liver or kidney disease
Alcohol or marijuana can worsen these effects, so it’s important to avoid them. Don’t drive or operate heavy machinery until you’re sure it’s safe to do so.
Some liquid forms of diazepam may contain alcohol, so be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist if you’re concerned.
Before any surgery, let your doctor know about all the medications you’re taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal products.
In some cases, especially in children or older adults, diazepam may have the opposite effect, causing agitation, restlessness, or hallucinations. Older adults are also more prone to side effects like drowsiness and loss of coordination, which can increase the risk of falling.
This medication is not recommended during pregnancy, as it can harm the unborn baby. Notify your doctor right away if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
Diazepam can pass into breast milk and may cause unwanted effects in a nursing infant. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks if you are breastfeeding.
Storage
Store diazepam in a dry, cool place, away from direct light and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom. If you are using the concentrated solution, discard the bottle after 90 days of opening. Ensure all medications are safely kept away from children and pets.
Don’t flush the medication or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. For proper disposal, ask your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for guidance.
Drug Interactions
Some medications may interact with diazepam, leading to increased side effect risks. Some of these include clozapine, fluvoxamine, orlistat, and sodium oxybate.
Be sure to tell your doctor if you’re taking any medications that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing, such as opioid painkillers, sleeping pills, muscle relaxants, or antihistamines.
If you’re taking over-the-counter products like allergy or cold medications, check with your pharmacist to make sure they won’t interfere with diazepam.
Diazepam can also affect the results of certain lab tests, so make sure to inform any healthcare professionals that you’re taking this medication.
Overdose
If someone has taken too much diazepam and is experiencing severe symptoms like passing out or trouble breathing, call 911 immediately. For non-life-threatening symptoms, contact your local poison control center (1-800-222-1222 in the U.S., or your provincial center in Canada). Symptoms of overdose may include extreme drowsiness, slow reflexes, or unconsciousness.
More Information
Missed a dose? Take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it’s almost time for your next dose. Never double your dose to make up for a missed one.
If you’ve been taking diazepam for a long time, your doctor may recommend regular medical tests, such as liver function tests, to monitor your health while using the medication. Make sure to attend all follow-up appointments.