Valium

Generic name: Diazepam

What is Valium?

Valium is used to treat anxiety disorders, the symptoms of sudden alcohol withdrawal, muscle spasms, and seizures.

What is the most important information I should know about Valium?

Due to the sleepiness and tiredness Valium can cause, you should not drive or operate dangerous machinery until you know how this drug affects you.

You should not drink alcohol or take other medications that can make you tired or drowsy while you are taking Valium.

If you are taking Valium as part of seizure therapy, you should not suddenly stop taking it because this may worsen or even cause seizures.

Talk to your doctor before increasing your Valium dose or before stopping therapy. Suddenly stopping Valium may cause you to experience symptoms of withdrawal that include shaking, stomach and muscle cramps, vomiting, sweating, insomnia, and seizures.

Some studies have shown that Valium may increase the risk of birth defects during the first trimester. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking Valium.

Use this drug with caution if you have any type of kidney or liver problems. If you take Valium for a long time, your doctor will likely perform blood tests to check your liver function and also the number of disease-fighting cells in your blood.

You may develop a physical or mental dependence on Valium, especially if you take it for a long time or if you have a history of alcohol or drug abuse.

Who should not take Valium?

You should not take Valium if you are pregnant, if you have an eye disorder known as acute narrow-angle glaucoma, or if you are allergic to diazepam or any other ingredient in Valium.

You should not use Valium if you have severe breathing problems, liver disease, sleep apnea, or a condition known as myasthenia gravis.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Valium?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Valium. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver problems, acute narrow-angle glaucoma, or if you drink alcohol regularly. Also tell your doctor if you have a history of drug abuse, breathing problems, or mental disorders.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Anxiety Disorders, Temporary Symptoms of Anxiety, and Seizure Disorders

Adults: The usual dosage is 2-10 milligrams (mg) taken two to four times a day.

Elderly: The usual starting dosage is 2-2.5 mg taken once or twice daily. Dose may be increased gradually as needed and tolerated.

Children (>6 months): The usual dosage is 1-2.5 mg given three to four times a day. Dose may be increased gradually as needed and tolerated.

Muscle Spasms

Adults: The usual dosage is 2-10 mg taken three or four times a day.

Elderly: The usual starting dosage is 2-2.5 mg taken once or twice daily. Dose may be increased gradually as needed and tolerated.

Children (>6 months): The usual dosage is 1-2.5 mg given three to four times a day. Dose may be increased gradually as needed and tolerated.

Sudden Alcohol Withdrawal

Adults: The starting dose is 10 mg taken three or four times daily during the first 24 hours. The dose is then reduced to 5 mg, three or four times daily as needed.

How should I take Valium?

Take Valium at the same time every day. It may be taken with or without food.

What should I avoid while taking Valium?

Do not drink alcohol or take other medications that can make you tired or drowsy while you are taking Valium.

Avoid suddenly stopping Valium therapy without first talking to your doctor. Do not take more than is prescribed without your doctor's approval.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Valium?

If Valium is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Valium with the following: antacids, antidepressants, barbiturates, cimetidine, fluoxetine, omeprazole, phenytoin, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), narcotics, and phenothiazines.

What are the possible side effects of Valium?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: drowsiness, tiredness, muscle weakness, loss of coordination, constipation, blurred vision

Can I receive Valium if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Taking Valium during pregnancy should be avoided. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Women taking Valium should not breastfeed, because Valium passes into breast milk.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Valium?

If you miss a dose of Valium, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.

How should I store Valium?

Store at room temperature away from light in a tightly closed container.