Generic name: Diazepam 

Brand name:    Valium

Drug classes:  Benzodiazepine

Other brands name: Diastat,voltaco,diazepam Intensol

What is Diazepam?

Diazepam is a  drug that belongs to the benzodiazepine class of  medicines.It is widely used for its anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), sedative, muscle relaxant, anticonvulsant, and amnestic (memory-impairing) properties. Here’s a detailed explanation:

Diazepam is a benzodiazepine with the chemical formula 7-chloro-1,3-dihydro-1-methyl-5-phenyl-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one. It acts on the central nervous system (CNS) by enhancing the effect of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

How diazepam works?

Diazepam works primarily by binding to a specific site on the GABA-A receptor, which is a type of neurotransmitter receptor found in the brain. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, meaning it reduces the activity of neurons in the brain. When diazepam binds to the GABA-A receptor, it enhances the effect of GABA, leading to increased inhibitory neurotransmission. This results in a calming effect on the CNS, reducing excessive neuronal activity.

Pharmacokinetics:

• Absorption: Diazepam is well absorbed after oral administration.
• Distribution: It is highly lipid-soluble, which means it distributes quickly throughout the body, including the brain.
• Metabolism: Diazepam undergoes extensive metabolism in the liver, primarily through the cytochrome P450 system, yielding active metabolites.
• Elimination: The drug and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine.

Therapeutic Uses:

• Anxiety Disorders: Diazepam is commonly prescribed for the short-term relief of symptoms associated with anxiety disorders.
• Insomnia: It may be used as a short-term treatment for insomnia.
• Muscle Spasms: Diazepam has muscle relaxant properties and is used to treat muscle spasms and certain types of muscle disorders.
• Seizure Disorders: It is an effective anticonvulsant and is used in the management of certain seizure disorders, including epilepsy.
• Alcohol Withdrawal: Diazepam is sometimes used to manage withdrawal symptoms in individuals undergoing alcohol withdrawal.

Side effect of Diazepam

Diazepam, like any medication, can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

Drowsiness: Most common side effects are drowsiness or sedation.This can impair a person’s ability to concentrate or operate machinery, so individuals taking diazepam should use caution when driving or engaging in activities that require alertness.

Dizziness: Some people may notice dizziness, especially when standing up in a hurry. This is often temporary but can be problematic, particularly in the elderly.

Fatigue: A feeling of tiredness or lethargy is commonly reported.

Confusion: In some cases, especially in older individuals, diazepam may cause confusion or memory impairment.

Muscle Weakness: Diazepam has muscle relaxant properties, and some individuals may experience muscle weakness.

Respiratory Depression: In high doses or when combined with other central nervous system depressants (such as alcohol), diazepam can cause respiratory depression, which is a slowing of breathing. This is more of a concern in overdose situations.

Hypersensitivity: Some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to diazepam, presenting with symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. 

what happens if I overdose?

An overdose of diazepam, particularly when combined with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol, can be dangerous and may lead to respiratory depression and coma.Emergency medical attention is crucial in case of overdose.

Does diazepam cause physical and psychological dependence?

Warning

Diazepam, a benzodiazepine, has the potential for addiction due to its ability to cause physical and psychological dependence. Long term use can lead to tolerance,  taking advanced boluses for the same effect. Abrupt discontinuation can result in withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety and seizures, reinforcing continued use.

 Risk factors include long-term use, higher doses, and a history of substance abuse. To minimize addiction risk, diazepam is typically prescribed for short durations, and discontinuation is managed through a gradual tapering process under medical supervision. 

Which medicine interacts with Diazepam?

Diazepam can interact with various drugs, influencing its effectiveness, side effects, and the risk of adverse reactions. 

• Alcohol: Combining diazepam with alcohol can increase central nervous system depression, leading to enhanced sedation and respiratory depression.
• Other Benzodiazepines: Concurrent use of multiple benzodiazepines can potentiate sedative effects
• Phenytoin: Diazepam levels may be decreased when used with phenytoin due to enzyme induction.
• Opioid Analgesics: Combining diazepam with opioids can result in increased sedation, respiratory depression, and the risk of overdose.
• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): SSRIs may interact with diazepam, affecting its metabolism and increasing the risk of side effects.
• Diphenhydramine: Increased sedation may occur when diazepam is combined with sedating antihistamines.
• Cimetidine: May inhibit the metabolism of diazepam, potentially increasing its blood levels and effects.
• Rifampin: May accelerate the metabolism of diazepam, reducing its effectiveness.
• Baclofen: Combined use with diazepam may lead to enhanced sedation and muscle relaxant effects.
• Grapefruit juice: can inhibit the metabolism of diazepam, leading to increased blood levels and effects.

It’s crucial for individuals using diazepam to inform their healthcare providers about all medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.

Is Diazepam a sleeping pill?

Diazepam is not primarily prescribed as a sleeping pill, but it does have sedative properties that can contribute to its use in certain sleep-related conditions. While it is not specifically designed as a sleep aid.

Precautions about Diazepam: 

Hypersensitivity: Individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to benzodiazepines, including diazepam, should avoid its use.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Diazepam may pose risks to the fetus, especially during the first trimester. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their healthcare provider for a careful assessment of risks and benefits.

Respiratory Conditions: Patients with respiratory conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), should use diazepam with caution due to the risk of respiratory depression.

History of Substance Abuse: Individuals with a history of substance abuse should be closely monitored when prescribed diazepam due to the potential for misuse and dependence.

Contraindications of Diazepam:

It is contraindicated in individuals with acute narrow-angle glaucoma, as it can increase intraocular pressure. 

Patients with myasthenia gravis, a neuromuscular disorder characterized by muscle weakness, should avoid diazepam due to the potential exacerbation of muscle weakness. 

Severe respiratory insufficiency, respiratory failure, and sleep apnea are contraindications, as diazepam can further compromise respiratory function. 

Combining diazepam with alcohol is also contraindicated due to the additive central nervous system depression. 

Individuals should consult with their healthcare provider to assess their health status and determine the appropriateness of diazepam use.

Take as directed

Diazepam oral tablet is used for short- term treatment. It comes with serious problems if you do n’t take it as specified.