Valium is a prescription medicine that is available as a Tablet. It is primarily used for the treatment of Anxiety, Epilepsy. Secondary and off-label uses of Valium have also been mentioned below.
The correct dosage of Valium depends on the patient's age, gender, and medical history. Individual symptoms and route of administration also determines the right dosage. Refer to the dosage section for a detailed discussion.
Apart from the aforementioned side effects, Valium can also lead to other problems, which have been listed below. Normally, these side effects of Valium are not long lasting and go away when the treatment is finished. However, if these continue for a longer time, consult your doctor right away.
Furthermore, you should know that effect of Valium is Moderate for pregnant women and Severe for women who are breastfeeding. It is important to know if Valium has any effect on the kidney, liver and heart. Information on such adverse effects, if any, has been given in the Valium related warnings section.
Individuals suffering from medical conditions like Myasthenia Gravis (MG), Liver Disease, Glaucoma must refrain from the use of Valium since this can cause severe adverse effects. Some other conditions that can be affected by Valium are listed in the contraindications section below.
Drug reaction of Valium with other medicines has been reported. See below for a complete list.
In addition to these precautions, you may also note that Valium is not safe while driving, and is is not addictive in nature.
Valium is used to treat the following -
Other Benefits
This is the usual dosage recommended in most common treatment cases. Please remember that every patient and their case is different, so the dosage can be different based on the disease, route of administration, patient's age and medical history.
Find the right dosage based on disease and age
Age Group | Dosage |
Adult |
|
Geriatric |
|
13 - 18 years (Adolescent) |
|
2 - 12 years (Child) |
|
Based on research, the following side effects have been observed when Valium is used -
Severe
Moderate
Mild
Is the use of Valium safe for pregnant women?
Pregnant women may experience moderate side effects from Valium. It is best to stop taking Valium immediately and inform your doctor if you notice any discomfort.
Is the use of Valium safe during breastfeeding?
Women who are breastfeeding may experience severe harmful effects after taking Valium. It should only be taken after medical advice.
What is the effect of Valium on the Kidneys?
Valium has very mild side effects on the kidneys.
What is the effect of Valium on the Liver?
So far, no research has been carried out on the effects of Valium on the liver. So it is not known whether taking Valium will affect the liver or not.
What is the effect of Valium on the Heart?
Side effects of Valium rarely affect the heart.
Valium should not be taken with following medicines due to severe side effects it may cause to patients -
Severe
Moderate
If you are suffering from any of the following diseases, you should not take Valium unless your doctor advises you to do so -
Is this Valium habit forming or addictive?
Yes, Valium cause dependence in some cases. Talk to your doctor before taking it.
Is it safe to drive or operate heavy machinery when consuming?
No, you should do not do anything that requires concentration and attention as the Valium can make you feel drowsy.
Is it safe?
Yes, but consume Valium only on doctor's advice.
Is it able to treat mental disorders?
Valium has been seen to have positive effect on patients with mental disorders.
Interaction between Food and Valium
Taking Valium with food is safe.
Interaction between Alcohol and Valium
Consumption of alcohol and Valium together may have severe effects on your health.
Take Valium as advised by your doctor. Do not take it longer than prescribed. Initially, a doctor prescribes this drug for a shorter duration and recommends his/her patient to follow- up/ re-visit to check for results. Taking this medicine longer than prescribed can lead to addiction because this is a habit-forming drug which can lead to drug dependency in patients.
No, Valium, does not cause stomach upset. For mild stomach upset you are advised to eat light and non-spicy meals along with this drug initially. But if you are experiencing severe stomach upset after taking this medicine to inform your doctor immediately.
Ideally Valium can be taken with food or without food post evening because its absorption is not affected by food. However, you are recommended to take it as per a doctor's instructions.
Valium works by suppressing abnormal activity of nerve cells in the brain through the increase in activity of a chemical messenger known as GABA. This calms the brain and provides relief to the patient.
Valium comes as a tablet, extended-release (long-acting) capsule, and concentrate (liquid), it should be taken by mouth. It is usually taken 1 to 4 times in a day or as advised by your doctor. Precautions must be taken in patients with chronic pulmonary insufficiency, personality disorders, muscle weakness, impaired liver or kidney function. Do not drive any vehicle or operate machinery after taking this medicine as it can cause drowsiness or sedation.
This medicine data has been created by -
B.Pharma, Pharmacy
5 Years of Experience
References
April Hazard Vallerand, Cynthia A. Sanoski. [link]. Sixteenth Edition. Philadelphia, China: F. A. Davis Company; 2019: Page No 424-426
KD Tripathi. [link]. Seventh Edition. New Delhi, India: Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers; 2013: Page No 357-358
US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [Internet]. Maryland. USA; Package leaflet information for the user; Valium® (diazepam)
US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [Internet]. Maryland. USA; Package leaflet information for the user; Diastat® (diazepam)
US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [Internet]. Maryland. USA; Package leaflet information for the user; Valotco® (diazepam)