About

Generic name: Diazepam
Brand names: Valium

Valium is used in the treatment of anxiety disorders and for short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety. It belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines. It is also used to relieve the symptoms of acute alcohol withdrawal, to relax muscles, to relieve the uncontrolled muscle movements caused by cerebral palsy and paralysis of the lower body and limbs, to control involuntary movement of the hands (athetosis), to relax tight, aching muscles, and, along with other medications, to treat convulsive disorders such as epilepsy.

How to take

Take Valium exactly as your doctor directed. Each oral dose is to be taken with a full glass of water. Not to be mistaken in the dose, measure the liquid forms of Valium with a dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have one, ask your pharmacist for help. Do not take Valium more often or in larger doses than your doctor prescribed. Valium is habit forming. It is easy to become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of Valium and don't take it for longer term than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur in case Valium is stopped suddenly after being used for several weeks. Doctors may recommend a gradual dose reduction.

Missed dose

Take it as soon as you remember if it is within an hour or so of the scheduled time. If you do not remember until later, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

Warnings and precautions

Valium may cause you to become drowsy or less alert; therefore, you should not drive or operate dangerous machinery or participate in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness until you know how Valium affects you. If you have liver or kidney problems, use Valium cautiously. Valium slows down the central nervous system and may intensify the effects of alcohol. Do not drink alcohol while taking Valium. If Valium is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Do not take Valium if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. There is an increased risk of birth defects. If Valium is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

Side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Valium.
* More common side effects may include: Anxiety, drowsiness, fatigue, light-headedness, loss of muscle coordination.
* Side effects due to a rapid decrease in dose or abrupt withdrawal from Valium: Abdominal and muscle cramps, convulsions, sweating, tremors, vomiting.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.