According to the National Institute of Mental Health, anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in America. It is diagnosed in both children and adults, affecting more than 19 million people each year. In some cases, prescription medications, like Valium, may be required to treat this condition. Valium is not used solely for anxiety disorders though; it is also used to treat the tremors and hallucinations that accompany alcohol withdrawal, as well as some types of muscular pain. While it has many uses, it is also accompanied by a variety of side effects, some more severe than others.
The Most Common Effects
As with any drug, there are side effects that are less serious and more common than others. The following side effects can be anticipated and should go away shortly after treatment begins. These side effects include feeling tired or drowsy, suffering from blurry vision, weakening of the muscles or loss of coordination, digestive problems such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, drooling and a decreased sex drive. You may also experience vertigo, a condition that causes you to feel as if you are spinning, problems sleeping due to nightmares or insomnia, slurred speech, memory problems, headaches or the development of a skin rash.
Side Effects to Worry About
Some side effects are cause for concern and should not be taken lightly. In fact if you experience any of these side effects, Drugs.com recommends that you call your doctor at once. These side effects include feeling confused having any thoughts that are out of the ordinary, behaving unusually, feeling so depressed that you begin to have suicidal thoughts or tendencies, suffering from hallucinations, feeling as though you might pass out, experiencing flu symptoms such as body aches, chills or fever and a change in the amount you urinate. It is also imperative to seek the advice of your doctor promptly if you have no fear of dangerous situations or notice that you are becoming hostile or aggressive toward others. Shallow breathing and muscle twitching are more indications of concern, as is the development of jaundice, which is a yellowing of your skin or eyes; this can indicate liver damage.
Allergic Reaction
Because diazepam and Valium are one in the same, those who are allergic to diazepam should not take Valium, according to Drugs.com. In some cases, you may be allergic to this medication and not realize it until an allergic reaction strikes. Signs of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing due to the swelling of your face, tongue, lips or throat and the development of hives. For some people, an allergic reaction can be fatal; seek emergency medical attention at once if any of these symptoms occur.
Be Careful Not to Overdose
Taking too much Valium can be fatal. If you see the signs of an overdose, seek emergency help. These signs include extreme drowsiness, weak or limp muscles, breathing that is shallow or stops completely, feeling extremely confused and fainting.
Member Comments