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Valium (Diazepam) for Anxiety

Home Valium

Valium (diazepam) belongs to the group of benzodiazepines. It influences the chemical structure inside the brain that may be distorted in patients suffering from anxiety. As such, Valium is commonly used to treat anxiety and associated disorders, although it has a range of other uses as well. Among others, it is used to manage alcohol withdrawal signs as well as spasms in one’s muscles. It is sometimes used in a combination with other medications to manage seizures.
 

How to Take This Drug?

The prescription of a doctor regarding the dosage and duration of treatment should be followed with much accuracy. It is also advisable to read the instructions contained in the leaflet inside the package. Follow the recommendations when taking Valium:

  • As a rule, the regular dose of Valium for adult patients may vary between 2 mg and 10 mg, which are generally taken 2-4 times a day. As for younger patients, Valium should not be taken by children under the age of 6, while the initial dose for older children is 1-2.5 mg administered 3-4 times a day;
  • The dose may be changed according to the specific demands of a patient. This is important because Valium may cause intense sedation and motor deficiency;
  • Valium is commonly used for a short duration of time, because it may provoke addiction if taken for longer periods. If you have been using this drug for long enough (over one month), do not stop taking it without consulting a doctor. This will allow avoiding withdrawal symptoms because in this case, you will have to reduce the dose step by step and stop using the medication gradually;
  • If you have been recommended a different dose, not the one listed above, do not violate the instructions of your doctor, because the particular dose may vary depending on one’s body weight and current medical state. Try not to miss the dose and avoid taking twice as much to make up for the skipped one.

Side Effects

Seek emergency help if you experience the symptoms of an allergic reaction to this medication. This may reveal in skin hives, breathing problems and swollen body parts. Apart from potentially hazardous allergic reactions, Valium may cause the following side effects:  

  • Weak breathing;
  • Feeling drowsy or about to lose consciousness;
  • Depressed state of mind and suicidal thoughts;
  • Feeling confused and having hallucinations;
  • Anxiety and panic attacks;
  • Difficulty falling asleep;
  • Feeling tired without a reason;
  • Uncommon seizures;
  • Weakness of muscles;
  • Agitation and hyperactivity;

Aggression and hostility towards others. It is advisable to seek immediate medical attention if you experience slow or weak breathing with too long pauses and have discolored lips, or if it is hard for you to wake up in the morning. The effect of sedation may last for longer periods in elderly patients who are taking Valium. Sudden falls are also common for such patients and, therefore, there is a need to be especially cautious in order to prevent unexpected injuries when taking this medication.