Overview of Valium (Generic)
Diazepam is generally used to treat anxiety, alcohol pullout, and seizures. It also helps in relieving muscle spasms and providing sedation before medical procedures. Diazepam functions by calming the brain and nerves, as it belongs to a drug class known as benzodiazepines.
How to Use
Before starting diazepam, ensure you read the Medication Guide from your pharmacist thoroughly. Also, ensure to read it again when you get a refill. If any instructions are unclear, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take diazepam orally as instructed by your doctor, with or without food. If you are using the liquid form, measure the dosage precisely with the device provided by the pharmacy. Avoid using household spoons, as they may not give accurate measurements.
When using the concentrated solution, measure the dose with the provided dropper and mix it with a small amount of liquid or soft food like applesauce or pudding. Consume immediately and do not store for later.
The dosage depends on your medical condition, age, and response to the treatment. Avoid increasing your dose or using the medication more frequently or for a longer period than prescribed. Doing so won’t accelerate the improvement of your condition but will increase the likelihood of side effects. Follow your health care provider’s instructions when discontinuing the drug.
Sudden cessation of diazepam can cause withdrawal symptoms such as shaking, muscle cramps, sweating, vomiting, anxiety, restlessness, or seizures. To avoid withdrawal symptoms, your doctor may gradually reduce your dosage. Withdrawal is more likely if diazepam has been used for a long time or in high doses. Inform your doctor immediately if withdrawal symptoms occur.
Over time, diazepam may lose its effectiveness. If this happens, speak to your doctor. Though effective for many, this medication carries a risk of addiction, especially for individuals with a history of substance abuse. To reduce this risk, follow your doctor’s instructions precisely.
Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking diazepam unless your doctor advises otherwise. Grapefruit may raise the risk of side effects, so avoid consuming it unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
Side Effects
See the Warnings section for additional details.
Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, blurred vision, and unsteadiness. If these worsen, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Remember, your doctor prescribed this medication because the benefits outweigh the risk of side effects. Most individuals experience no severe side effects.
Serious side effects, such as memory issues, hallucinations, depression, agitation, confusion, trouble walking or speaking, muscle weakness, and yellowing of the skin or eyes, should be reported to your doctor immediately. Symptoms like persistent sore throat, fever, or chills may indicate an infection.
Seek urgent medical assistance if you experience shallow or slow breathing.
A severe allergic reaction to diazepam is rare. However, if you notice symptoms such as rash, severe dizziness, itching/swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), or trouble breathing, get medical assistance right away.
For any unlisted side effects, contact your healthcare provider.
In the U.S., contact your doctor for advice regarding side effects. You may also report side effects to the FDA at danapricedental.com or visit www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada, side effects can be reported to Health Canada at . danapricedental.com
Warnings & Precautions
Before using diazepam, inform your doctor about any allergies, particularly to diazepam or other benzodiazepines like temazepam or oxazepam. Additionally, disclose any other allergies, as the product may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions.
Discuss your medical history, especially conditions like muscle disease (e.g., myasthenia gravis), lung/breathing problems (e.g., COPD, sleep apnea), mental/mood disorders (such as depression or suicidal thoughts), substance use disorder, glaucoma, liver disease, or kidney disease.
This medication can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision, so take precautions when engaging in tasks requiring alertness. Using alcohol or marijuana can worsen these effects. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you are certain you can do so safely. Speak to your doctor if you’re using marijuana.
Some liquid forms of this medication may contain alcohol. Check with your healthcare provider regarding safe usage.
Before surgery, notify your doctor or dentist about all medications and herbal products you are using.
Diazepam may cause opposite effects, such as restlessness, agitation, or hallucinations, in some children.
Older adults are more likely to experience side effects like drowsiness and coordination issues, which can increase the risk of falls. For some, diazepam may cause restlessness or hallucinations rather than calming effects.
This medication is not recommended during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby. If you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy, notify your doctor immediately to discuss the risks and benefits.
Diazepam passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Breastfeeding while on diazepam is not advised. Consult your doctor if you’re breastfeeding.
Storage
Store diazepam at room temperature, down from light and humidity. Avoid storing it in the bathroom. If you’re using the concentrated solution, discard any remaining solution after 90 days of opening. Ensure all medications are stored safely out of the reach of children and pets.
Do not dispose of medication by flushing or pouring it down drains unless instructed. Properly discard expired or unused medicine by consulting your pharmacist or local disposal service.
Drug Interactions
See the Warnings and How to Use sections for fresh information.
Drug interactions may alter how medications function or increase the risk of side effects. Provide a full list of all the products you use, including prescription/non-prescription medications and herbal supplements, to your healthcare provider. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any drugs without consulting your doctor.
Medications such as clozapine, fluvoxamine, or orlistat may interact with diazepam.
Taking this medication alongside products that cause drowsiness or breathing problems (e.g., opioid pain relievers, alcohol, marijuana, other benzodiazepines, muscle relaxants, or antihistamines) may increase the risk of serious side effects. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider if you are using any of these.
Check all your medications, especially for allergies or cough/cold, as they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist how to safely use these products.
Diazepam may affect lab test results. Inform your healthcare provider that you are using this medication.
Overdose
In the event of an overdose, and if the individual is experiencing severe symptoms like trouble breathing or fainting, call 911. If the symptoms are less severe, contact a poison control center immediately. U.S. residents can call danapricedental.com, and Canadian residents should contact their local poison control center.
Overdose symptoms include severe drowsiness, slow reflexes, slow or shallow breathing, fainting, and loss of consciousness.
More Information
Missed Doses: If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Avoid taking two doses to compensate for the one you missed.
Notes: Do not share diazepam with others, as sharing is illegal. If you’re on this medication for a prolonged period, your doctor may order tests such as liver function and blood count. Be sure to attend all appointments.
FAQs about Valium (Diazepam)
1. What is Valium (Diazepam) used for?
Valium (Diazepam) is primarily prescribed to treat anxiety, alcohol withdrawal symptoms, and seizures. It can also be used to relieve muscle spasms and provide sedation before certain medical procedures.
2. How does Valium work?
Valium works by calming the brain and nerves.
3. How should I take Valium?
Take Valium orally as directed by your doctor, with or without food. If using the liquid form, measure the dose accurately with the provided measuring device. Avoid using household spoons, as they may not provide an accurate dose.
4. Can I stop taking Valium suddenly?
No, do not stop taking Valium suddenly, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms like shaking, muscle cramps, sweating, vomiting, anxiety, or seizures. Your doctor will gradually reduce your dosage to prevent withdrawal effects.
5. What should I avoid while taking Valium?
Avoid consuming alcohol and grapefruit products, as they can increase the risk of side effects.
6. What should I avoid while taking Valium?
Avoid consuming alcohol and grapefruit products, as they can increase the risk of side effects.
7. Is Valium safe for breastfeeding mothers?
Valium can pass into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Breastfeeding while taking Valium is not recommended. Speak with your doctor to discuss safer options.
8. What should I do if I overdose on Valium?
If someone has overdosed and is experiencing severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or loss of consciousness, call 911 immediately. For less severe cases, contact your local poison control center.
9. Can Valium affect my lab test results?
Yes, Valium may affect certain lab test results. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider that you are taking this medication when undergoing tests.
10. Can I take other medications with Valium?
Some medications can interact with Valium, such as opioids, muscle relaxants, and certain antidepressants.
Thank you for choosing the Dana Price, DDS Dental Center. We focus on the complete care of our patients, with comprehensive “whole health” dentistry. If you have any questions about your treatment, or would like to schedule an appointment, please feel free to contact us.