What is Valium?
Valium is an anxiety medication that has significant longevity. This medication is also known by its generic name diazepam and has been useful for many years in calming anxiety. It does this by interacting with brain chemicals to facilitate a better overall balance.
Besides its affect on anxiety Valium is also used to treat alcohol withdrawal, muscle spasms as well as an active ingredient in many seizure prevention therapies.
Important information about Valium
Compatibility is always an issue with any medication. With Valium there are compatibility issues for those who have certain preexisting conditions such as certain liver diseases, types of glaucoma, sleep apnea, specific breathing problems, myasthenia gravis and allergic reactions to Valium.
Your doctor will seek to find answers to specific questions related to your anxiety care. This will include information related to suicidal thoughts, addictions and metal illness. Answers to these questions will enable your doctor to find the right anxiety therapy for you.
Alcohol should not be taken while using Valium because this medication magnifies the impact of alcohol on your system
Birth defects have been noted in children whose mother used Valium. Because of this, Valium is not for use with those who are or may become pregnant.
Valium can be habit forming and an overdose of this drug can lead to coma or death.
In some cases Valium may prescribed for children. Accidental falls are common among older patients who use Valium. Special care should be taken in both circumstances.
What to avoid while taking Valium
Personal decision-making and reflexes may be affected when using Valium. Operating heavy machinery should be carefully considered and potentially avoided and impaired judgment should be recognized as part of living with Valium.
Possible Side Effects of Valium
A variety of side effects exist with the use of Valium. These symptoms range from mild to severe. Here is a partial list for your consideration.
- A pronounced decrease in inhibitions
- Allergic reactions including hives and facial swelling
- Altered behaviors
- Anger
- Coordination deficits
- Drooling
- Feeling faint
- Fever
- Hallucinations
- Hostility
- Impaired vision
- Impotence
- Insomnia
- Jaundice
- Little to no urination
- Nausea
- Speech impairments
- Suicidal thoughts
- Trembling
Your physician may be needed to help you deal with these and other potential side effects.
What do I do if I overdose on Valium?
Symptoms of an overdose may include…
- Breathing that stops
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Fainting
- Weak muscles
An overdose can lead to death in patients who use Valium. If you suspect an overdose you should seek medical help immediately.
Additional Warnings
Because it is habit forming it should be placed beyond the reach of children or those who may have a tendency toward addictions. In the case of an overdose medical help will be required. Seek immediate attention.
Where can I get more information?
Roche Pharmaceuticals, the makers of Valium, provide important information at http://www.rocheusa.com/products/valium/tabspi.pdf
Additional details can be found through WebMD.
You can also find more details by visiting with your primary care physician or pharmacist.
