Diazepam ( Valium 10mg ) Uses, Dosage, Side Effects

   Diazepam ( Valium 10mg ) is commonly prescribed for muscle spasms and seizures when misused diazepam can result in addiction overdose and even death.

       Generic Name

    The generic name of this medication is diazepam.

      Brand Name

     But it's all under several brand names like valium.

Diazepam ( Valium 10mg ) 

What is Diazepam?

    Diazepam belongs to a group of medications called benzodiazepines these medications work by increasing the levels of the neurochemical GABA. 

   GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that promotes anxiety reduction, sleepiness, and muscle relaxation with further effects as an anti-convulsant because of these effects diazepam is licensed for use to treat anxiety, muscle spasms, and seizures.

  Diazepam can be prescribed as a pre medication to calm you before medical procedures.

Is Valium safe for me?

    Is there anyone who shouldn't take diazepam it's best to speak with your doctor before taking this medication.

    If you have any of the following conditions you've had a previous allergic reaction to diazepam or other benzodiazepines have a condition that causes impairment of the function of the nerves and muscles required to breathe you suffer from a condition known as sleep apnea syndrome and some patients with unstable myasthenia gravis.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

   Is diazepam safe in pregnancy breastfeeding dies upon use in pregnancy and may result in your baby experiencing withdrawal symptoms after birth if used late in pregnancy your baby may be drowsy after birth.

  This medication should also be avoided where possible among breastfeeding mothers' diazepam is expressed in breast milk and can be ingested by your baby in these cases mothers may find that their baby becomes drowsy or even falls asleep during feeds in both cases your doctor will need to weigh up the risk the benefits of taking the medication before continuing your prescription. 

What is the correct dose of Diazepam

 

 Diazepam is available in a variety of strengths ranging from two to ten milligrams the regime of two milligrams taken three times a day is commonly used for anxiety higher doses may be required depending on your indication when prescribed as a pump it's important to use the lowest strength required for the shortest period to reduce your risk of addiction.

       How to use Diazepam

    Take your diazepam as prescribed by your doctor tablet and liquid preparations may be taken with or without food but please take them alongside a glass of water.

   For some diazepam can cause drowsiness and even impair your vision so it's best to avoid driving or using heavy machinery particularly if you're new to this medication and You're unsure of how it will influence you.

     Is Diazepam additive ?

   It is possible to become addicted to diazepam therefore it's important to the shortest possible time at the lowest dose.

   In the majority of cases, diazepam is not used as a long-term medication Individuals who become dependent on diazepam may experience withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop the medication symptoms of withdrawal can include agitation irritability sweating diarrhea increased confusion, and even seizures.

    How Quickly Does It Work?

   Diazepam gets to work within minutes of start feeling the benefits soon after you taking the medication so you should your first dose.

    Are there any Food I Should Avoid?

   You should avoid any grapefruit products this is because grapefruits contain a chemical that can interfere with your body's natural ability to break down diet as a pan in combination grapefruit can increase the amount of diazepam present in your bloodstream increasing your risk of drug overdose. 

    Additionally, drinks that contain the stimulant caffeine may inhibit the relaxing effect of diazepam therefore it's advisable to avoid any tea and coffee whilst taking this medication. 

    Can I Drink Alcohol

alcohol and diazepam

   You should avoid consuming alcohol alongside diazepam this combination can
make you feel very drowsy and reduce your consciousness level in some this reduced consciousness could be life-threatening you may be unable to breathe effectively and be unable to wake up.

    Missed My Dose

   If you forget to take your diet on time don't worry take it as soon as you remember however if it's almost time for your next dose skip the missed dose remember to take your next dose at the regular time please don't double dose to make up for a missed one.

   Taken Too Much

   Too much medication diazepam in an overdose can be extremely dangerous and even a risk to your life symptoms of overdose can include drowsiness dizziness confusion poor coordination difficulty breathing lethargy and weakness and even loss of consciousness.

  If you believe you've taken an overdose of this medication please seek emergency
assessment.

  Side Effects Of Diazepam

   Fortunately, most will not experience any side effects however as with all
medications side effects can occur common side effects associated with diazepam are tremors slur speech or poor coordination mood changes even increased anxiety muscle weakness dizziness and drowsiness. 

Side Effects Of Diazepam

   Rarely people may experience more concerning side effects if you experience any of the following please consult with your doctor urgently a change of behavior such as increased confusion aggression or agitation increased paranoia hallucinations or delusions where individuals may hear or see things that aren't real slowing or stopping of your breathing severe drowsiness and unconsciousness.

   Particularly if taken alongside alcohol or opiate-based painkillers urinary retention and is where people are unable to pass urine freely finally allergic reactions are concerning as they can be life-threatening fortunately life-threatening allergic reactions are rare those with serious allergic reactions should call emergency services for assistance.

  Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction can include swelling of the face lips mouth and throat difficulty breathing wheezing or chest tightness and even an allergic skin rash of course this list is not exhaustive and for a full list of side effects please refer to the drug information leaflet that comes with your medications.