The Effects Of Valium On A Person

Valium is a prescription medication with a generic name of diazepam. Diazepam is available as an oral tablet, an oral extended-release capsule, an oral solution and a rectal gel. It is also given as a shot into the muscle or administered into the vein. Diazepam may also be placed in between the cheek and gum. It is a controlled substance that must be taken only as prescribed. Care should be taken to avoid drug diversion.

Intended Neurological Effects

Valium offers many benefits to patients with certain conditions. It is indicated for the treatment of short-term anxiety and chronic anxiety disorders. The 2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide states that diazepam is also indicated for withdrawal in persons addicted to alcohol, as it can lessen or prevent delirium tremens, agitation and other symptoms. It is used to lower anxiety levels and recall in patients headed to surgery or other extensive procedures.

Intended Muscular Effects

The injectable form of diazepam is indicated for some cases of tetanus and seizure disorder. The rectal and oral forms are sometimes given for seizure disorder as well. Diazepam is used as a muscle relaxant in cases of severe muscle spasms.

Unintended Neurological Effects

As with all medications, diazepam has potential side effects. Common neurological side effects include light-headedness, incoordination, weakness, excessive tiredness, restlessness and confusion. Some people experience drowsiness when first taking diazepam, while others feel unwarranted excitement for the first couple of weeks. A dosage decrease often lowers the impact of these side effects. It is imperative to avoid driving or operating machinery while dizzy or drowsy.
Extrapyramidal system symptoms may be experienced. These can include uncoordinated muscle movements, rigid muscles and difficulty speaking. This is less common with Valium than with some other similar drugs.
Drug dependence can occur after long administration of diazepam, creating a need for the drug to be tapered off. Do not alter or discontinue your dosage without your physician's approval. According to Drugs.com, abrupt withdrawal of diazepam can cause difficulty sleeping, strange thoughts, tremors, muscle cramps, odd behavior, vomiting and sweating.

Other Unintended Effects

Other common side effects of Valium include diarrhea, constipation, fast heart rate, slow heart rate, changes in sexual interest, changes in appetite, urinary incontinence and difficulty passing urine. Your physician should be alerted to any side effects you experience.
A severe allergic reaction can occur, manifested by difficulty breathing, hives, rash and swelling of the face, mouth, tongue or throat. Emergency care is required for this type of reaction.