What is Ðiαzєραm?
Ðiαzєραm (brand name Vαlïum) is a benzodiazepine. It works by enhancing calming neurotransmitters in the brain (mainly GABA), producing a sedative, muscle-relaxing, anti-anxiety, and anticonvulsant effect.
What Ðiαzєραm is Used For
- Anxiety disorders
- Alcohol withdrawal symptoms
- Muscle spasms and stiffness (often with other medicines)
- Seizure control (as part of combination therapy)
Key Warnings
- Ðiαzєραm can slow or stop breathing, especially with alcohol, opioids, or other sedatives.
- MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep it secure and do not share.
- Do not stop suddenly after long-term use — withdrawal can be life-threatening and may last many months.
Seek immediate help if, after stopping, you have: unusual muscle movements, severe mood or behavior change, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or suicidal thoughts.
Who Should NOT Take Ðiαzєραm
Do not use if you have:
- Allergy to Ðiαzєραm or other benzodiazepines (Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, etc.)
- Myasthenia gravis (muscle weakness disorder)
- Severe liver disease
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Severe breathing problems or sleep apnea
Do not give to children younger than 6 months without medical advice.
Before Taking Ðiαzєραm
Tell your doctor if you have:
- Breathing or lung problems
- Glaucoma
- Liver or kidney disease
- Seizures (unless Ðiαzєραm is prescribed for them)
- History of drug or alcohol addiction
- Depression or suicidal thoughts
If pregnant or planning pregnancy, tell your doctor — Ðiαzєραm may harm the unborn baby and can cause life-threatening withdrawal in newborns. Avoid breastfeeding while on Ðiαzєραm.
How to Take Ðiαzєραm
- Take exactly as prescribed. Do not increase dose or take longer than directed.
- Use the measuring device for liquid forms.
- Typically intended for short-term use; do not take longer than 4 months without medical advice.
- Do not stop suddenly — taper gradually under a doctor’s plan.
- Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
If You Miss a Dose
Take when you remember. If it’s near your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at once.
Overdose
Seek emergency care or call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose, especially with alcohol or opioids, can be fatal. Symptoms: extreme drowsiness, weak or limp muscles, slow breathing, loss of coordination, coma.
What to Avoid
- Alcohol — can cause dangerous sedation or death.
- Grapefruit or grapefruit juice — may increase Ðiαzєραm levels and side effects.
- Driving or hazardous activities until you know how it affects you.
Side Effects
Serious — call your doctor immediately:
- Trouble breathing or slow breathing
- Severe drowsiness, confusion, paranoia, or hallucinations
- New or worsening seizures
- Suicidal thoughts or severe mood changes
Common:
- Drowsiness, tiredness
- Muscle weakness
- Problems with balance or coordination
Older adults may experience prolonged drowsiness and a higher fall risk.
Withdrawal
Stopping suddenly can cause: anxiety, insomnia, hallucinations, seizures, mood changes, and other severe symptoms. Some withdrawal effects can persist up to 12 months or longer. Always taper under supervision.
Key Takeaways
- Ðiαzєραm (Vαlïum) is a benzodiazepine used for anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, muscle spasms, and seizures.
- It carries risk of addiction, respiratory depression, and severe withdrawal.
- Avoid mixing with alcohol, opioids, or other sedatives.
- Always follow your doctor’s instructions and store the medicine securely.