The Institute for Mental Health (NIMH) estimates that 40 million adults suffer annually with an anxiety disorder. These disorders frequently present in people with established chemical abuse problems as well as in those with depression or other anxiety disorder diagnoses. Diazepam (Valium), a benzodiazepine, is a well-known anti-anxiety medication prescribed in the short term--that is, for about four months. Because of its potential for addiction, Valium use should be monitored closely if taken for longer. As with any prescription medicine, side effects are possible and can vary depending on the person.
Common Side Effects
Some side effects commonly occur when one starts taking Valium; however, these effects usually go away shortly after the body gets used to the drug. Two such effects include drowsiness and dizziness. Other common side effects may include fatigue, headaches with blurred vision and trouble sleeping with rapid-eye movement (REM) sleep deprivation. Digestive problems that may occur include diarrhea or constipation and nausea with or without vomiting. Valium can also lead to dry mouth and a decreased interest in sex.
Motor and Neurological Deficits
People who take Valium sometimes experience impaired motor ability. Side effects include increased muscle weakness and spasms, shakiness or trembling. A person may be unsteady while walking and exhibit a noticeable lack of coordination or loss of balance. She may have trouble communicating orally and may see changes in the rhythm or pattern of her speech or start slurring words.
Cognitive Deficits
Cognitive-related deficits tend to increase with higher dosages of Valium. A person may notice a lack of cognitive clarity, reduced concentration and memory deficits. Antegrade amnesia may increase with higher dosages. Valium may also affect a person's ability to learn. A meta-analysis by M.J. Barker and colleagues in 2004 from the "Archive of Clinical Neuropsychology" showed that full cognitive function did not return until a year or longer after withdrawal from long-term benzodiazepine use, including Valium. The researchers concluded that some cognitive deficits may either be permanent or they take longer than six months to recover.
References
- "Archive of Clinical Neuropsychology"; Persistence of Cognitive Effects after Withdrawal from Long-term Benzodiazepine Use; M.J. Barker et al; 2004
- RxList: Valium
- Drugs.com: Valium
Member Comments