Diazepam

Diazepam is another drug that’s been around for quite some time and is commonly used for treating anxiety, insomnia, seizures, muscle spasms and alcohol withdrawal. Diazepam is one of the more widely known anti-anxiety drugs, not only by the medical profession, but the general public at large. It belongs to the group of drugs known as Benzodiazepine and has a wide range of uses. It also helps to relieve nervousness, tension and promote sleep. May also be used as a muscle relaxant in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal and the relief of epileptic seizures. As with other drugs in this group, diazepam may become habit forming if taken regularly over a long period of time. Diazepam is also used as an anticonvulsant.

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Quick Guide

• Benzodiazepine anti-anxiety danger of overdose – MEDIUM.
• Anticonvulsant danger of overdose – MEDIUM.
• Muscle-relaxant with overdose danger – MEDIUM.
• Dependency is said to be – HIGH.
• Prescription only drug – YES.
• Available as generic – YES (generic drugs, short: generics) is a drug which is produced and distributed without patent protection.
• Alcohol Avoidance – YES.
• Alcohol may increase sedative effect of Diazepam.

Side Effects

You may if on this medication suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, as it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted adverse effects.

Common: Daytime drowsiness, dizziness, unsteadiness
Rare: Headaches, blurred vision, confusion. forgetful, rash

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using this medication It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

Regular use of this drug may also diminish its effect as the body adapts It could also be habit-forming. Severe withdrawal reactions may occur if stopped suddenly after prolonged use. Side effects normally diminish after a few days failing this a reduction in dosage can also be of help.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

Avoid driving/hazardous work until you know how diazepam affects you. Diazepam can cause reduced alertness and slowed reactions. Alcohol may also increase the sedative effect of diazepam.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

Safety in pregnancy is unknown. The drug also passes into the breast milk and may have an effect on your baby. Discuss both issues with your doctor.

Diazepam is classified as a pregnancy Category D medicine by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Category D… There is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Surgery

Tell Your Doctor Or Pharmacist

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative medication.

See full list of things you should tell your doctor about.»

Over 60′s & Children

A reduced dosage may be necessary as there is an increased likelihood of adverse reactions a reduced dosage would also be necessary for infants and children.

Overdose

I an unintentional extra dose is taken it is unlikely to cause problems. However, large overdoses may cause unusual drowsiness Notify your Doctor immediately.

Failing this go to your nearest accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Take the container with you. This will help the hospital staff identify what has been taken and work towards given the right kind of help without delay.

Other Medication Reactions

All drugs that have a sedative effect on the nervous system will more likely than not increase the the sedative properties of this drug. Drugs the likes of Cimetidine, Isoniazid, Ritonavic, Amprenavir may inhibit the breakdown of diazepam leading to increased levels in the blood

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Missed A Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

If you have been taking the drug for less than 2 weeks continuously. It can be stopped as soon as you feel you are no-longer in need. However, do not stop abruptly if you have been taking it longer consult your doctor first he may supervise a gradual reduction, other wise you could suffer withdrawal symptoms.

Effect Of Medication

It is possible to feel the effects within 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on how the medication is taken. Intravenously given the effects would be instant. Effects of the medication could last up to 24 hours, and a possibility of days.

Storage and Safety

Keep medicine in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach of children. Never take medication that has past the expiry date shown on the box or container. Return all un-used or old medicines to your pharmacist. Do not discard old or unwanted medication into your trash, sink or toilet.

If this medication has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or others feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.

Natural Remedy

Depression can be a natural response to a period of crisis/emotional upset. Sleeping habits often become upset during this period the sufferer getting either to little or to much. If you find yourself in this corner then the Aromatherapist would recommend, Citrus Essences, Clary Sage, Lavender, Ylang Ylang, Sandal Wood. Consistent depression, Chronic depression needs professional help. Arrange to see your GP he may be able to put you in touch with a counsellor or a psychotherapist. Mild depression can be helped by aromatherapy.