Diazepam, the generic name for the drug Valium, is a medication mainly used to treat anxiety. Other uses of the drug include inducing conscious sedation and skeletal muscle relaxation, such as in prolonged seizures or conditions causing muscle spasms. Diazepam belongs to the class of drugs called benzodiazepines and referred to as an anxiolytic. It works by depressing the central nervous system and this action causes most of the side effects.
Main Side Effects
Most frequent side effects associated with Diazepam include dizziness, drowsiness and feeling lethargic. This occurs because of the drug's action on the central nervous system. Nerve impulses sent from the brain to the body, called synapses, are prevented thus affecting how fast you respond. Deglin and Vallerand, authors of Davis's Drug Guide for Nurses, state that Diazepam can affect everyone differently. Therefore, when starting this medication, avoid driving or operating machinery until your response to the medication is established.
Drug Interaction
A central nervous system depressing effect can intensify because of a drug interaction, if you already take antidepressants, antihistamines, opioid pain medications or alcohol, while taking Diazepam. Tell your doctor about the other medications you take. The biggest danger to this interaction is respiratory depression which could prove fatal. Get medical help immediately if you experience trouble breathing.
Other Side Effects
Other less common side effects include depression, slurred speech, headache and a feeling as if you have a hangover. Diazepam can also cause blurred vision, skin rashes, blood clots in the legs, constipation, nausea, vomiting or weight gain. Prolonged use can result in tolerance or psychological and physical dependence. Speak with your doctor if you experience any of these side effects or planning to stop taking the drug because abrupt withdrawal can cause seizures. Diazepam falls under drugs in pregnancy category D which, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), poses an increased risk of congenital malformations and other developmental abnormalities to the fetus. Notify your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
References
- "Davis's Drug Guide for Nurses"; Judith Hopfer Deglin, PharmD; April Hazard Vallerand, Ph.D., R.N., FAAN; 2009
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Valium
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