Diazepam is mainly used to relieve anxiety, muscle spasms and convulsions. It is also used to control agitation associated with abstinence from alcohol. Sometimes, it can even be used to treat cases of irritable colon syndrome and panic attacks.
What is Diazepam?
Diazepam is a benzodiazepine that acts by performing anticonvulsant, anxiolytic, sedative, muscle relaxant and amnesic activity. Its action is based on binding to specific receptors.
How should Diazepam be taken?
Diazepam is taken orally in the form of tablets, extended-release capsules (strictly to be swallowed whole) or drops. The dosage generally ranges from 1 to 4 administrations per day.
Side effects associated with Diazepam
Possible side effects of Diazepam include the following:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Appetite changes
- Restlessness or excitement
- Constipation
- Difficulty passing urine
- Frequent need to urinate
- Blurred vision
- Sexual problems
It is important to contact your doctor if the treatment is associated with:
- Convulsions
- Mild but persistent tremors or the inability to sit still
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Severe rash skin
- Jaundice
- Irregular heartbeat
- Shuffled walk
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Diazepam
Diazepam can cause addiction so it is important to follow the doctor's prescription. It can also interfere with the ability to drive or operate dangerous machinery and drowsiness that may be triggered by alcohol. In order to be effective, it must be taken regularly and no doses should be skipped. Moreover, it is advised to take into account the fact that tobacco smoke may reduce its effectiveness.
Suddenly stopping Diazepam intake should be avoided, as it can lead to symptoms of abstinence. Any antacids should be taken at least one hour after this medicine.
Before taking Diazepam, it is important to inform your doctor:
- If you have any allergies to the active substance or any other drug. Mentioning in particular: alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, clonazepam, clorazepate, estazolam, flurazepam, lorazepam, oxazepam, prazepam, temazepam or triazolam;
- If you are taking any other medicines, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: antihistamines, cimetidine, digoxin, disulfiram, fluoxetine, isoniazid, ketoconazole, levodopa, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, painkillers, drugs for Parkinson's, asthma, colds or allergies, metoprolol, muscle relaxants, oral contraceptives, probenecid, propoxyphene, propranolol, ranitidine, rifampin, sedatives, sleeping pills, theophylline, tranquilizers, valproic acid, and vitamins;
- If you suffer (or have suffered) from glaucoma, seizures, lung disease, heart or liver disease
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
It is important to inform surgeons and dentists about any ongoing treatment with Diazepam.
