Diazepam

Generic Name: diazepam

Benzodiazepine [EPC]Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Diazepam

Diazepam is a benzodiazepine derivative. It is a colorless to light yellow crystalline compound, insoluble in water. Available in 2 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg oral tablets.

Overview

Diazepam is a benzodiazepine derivative. It is a colorless to light yellow crystalline compound, insoluble in water. Available in 2 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg oral tablets.

Uses

Indicated for anxiety disorder management and short-term anxiety symptom relief. Also useful for acute alcohol withdrawal symptoms, skeletal muscle spasm relief (adjunctively), and as an adjunct in convulsive disorders.

Dosage

Adults: 2-10 mg, 2-4 times daily for anxiety; 10 mg three to four times daily initially for alcohol withdrawal; 2-10 mg, 3-4 times daily for muscle spasm. Geriatric/Debilitated: 2-2.5 mg once or twice daily initially. Pediatric: 1 mg to 2.5 mg, 3 or 4 times daily initially.

Side Effects

Most common: drowsiness, fatigue, muscle weakness, ataxia. Others include confusion, depression, blurred vision, hypotension. Psychiatric and paradoxical reactions including agitation, hallucinations, and behavioral changes documented.

Interactions

Opioids increase respiratory depression risk. Concomitant use with alcohol not recommended. CYP3A4 and 2C19 inhibitors (cimetidine, ketoconazole, fluvoxamine, fluoxetine, omeprazole) may increase sedation. Phenytoin metabolism potentially decreased.

Warnings

Three major boxed warnings: (1) Concomitant opioid use risk causing respiratory depression, coma, death; (2) Abuse, misuse, addiction potential; (3) Physical dependence and withdrawal - abrupt discontinuation may precipitate life-threatening acute withdrawal reactions. Contraindicated in patients under 6 months, myasthenia gravis, severe respiratory insufficiency, severe hepatic insufficiency, sleep apnea, and acute narrow-angle glaucoma.

Pregnancy

Available data show no clear association between benzodiazepines and major birth defects. Neonates born to mothers using benzodiazepines late in pregnancy may experience sedation and/or neonatal withdrawal.

Storage

Store at 20 to 25 degrees C (68 to 77 degrees F). Protect from light.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Diazepam used for?

Indicated for anxiety disorder management and short-term anxiety symptom relief. Also useful for acute alcohol withdrawal symptoms, skeletal muscle spasm relief (adjunctively), and as an adjunct in convulsive disorders.

What are the side effects of Diazepam?

Most common: drowsiness, fatigue, muscle weakness, ataxia. Others include confusion, depression, blurred vision, hypotension. Psychiatric and paradoxical reactions including agitation, hallucinations, and behavioral changes documented.

Can I take Diazepam during pregnancy?

Available data show no clear association between benzodiazepines and major birth defects. Neonates born to mothers using benzodiazepines late in pregnancy may experience sedation and/or neonatal withdrawal.

What are the important warnings for Diazepam?

Three major boxed warnings: (1) Concomitant opioid use risk causing respiratory depression, coma, death; (2) Abuse, misuse, addiction potential; (3) Physical dependence and withdrawal - abrupt discontinuation may precipitate life-threatening acute withdrawal reactions. Contraindicated in patients under 6 months, myasthenia gravis, severe respiratory insufficiency, severe hepatic insufficiency, sleep apnea, and acute narrow-angle glaucoma.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.