Understanding Diazepam: A Medication for Anxiety and Panic Disorder
Diazepam belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. It is primarily used to treat muscle spasms, seizures, and anxiety. Additionally, it is utilized in rehabilitation centers to alleviate symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, such as insomnia and sweating. Diazepam is also employed off-label for the treatment of spasticity in individuals with cerebral palsy and for sedation in intensive care units.
How Diazepam Works in Treating Panic Disorderand Anxiety
Diazepam affects gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating anxiety, relaxation, and sleep. By delaying the action of the central nervous system, Diazepam reduces agitation and nervousness, inducing a sense of relaxation and calm. Consequently, it helps decrease the intensity of anxiety and panic attack symptoms.
Precautions to Take When Using Diazepam
- Avoid taking this medication for more than four weeks.
- Possible side effects of Diazepam include drowsiness and sleepiness.
- Do not consume alcohol or use opioids while taking Diazepam, as it can lead to excessive drowsiness, difficulty waking up, and breathing problems.
- Although Diazepam is commonly known as Valium, this brand is no longer available in drugstores.
- It is easy to develop an addiction to this drug; therefore, it is recommended to use Diazepam at the lowest effective dose for a maximum of four weeks.
Proper Usage and Dosage of Diazepam
Liquid and Tablet Dosage Guidelines
Normal dosage recommendations:
- Sleep problems: 5mg to 20mg, taken once daily at bedtime.
- Panic and anxiety: 2mg, taken three times daily; this can be increased to 5 to 10 milligrams, taken twice a day.
- Muscle aches in children (aged 1 to 16 years): The dosage depends on the child’s age and is typically taken once a day, with 8 to 10 hours between each dose.
- Muscle aches in adults: 2mg to 15mg daily. This can be taken in two or three doses. If necessary, the dosage can be increased up to 20mg, taken three times a day.
If you are over 65 years old, have liver or kidney problems, or severe breathing issues, it is advisable to take a lower dose of Diazepam. Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the dosage and usage of the medication.
Potential Side Effects of Diazepam
Like other benzodiazepines, Diazepam may cause respiratory and central nervous system depression, withdrawal syndrome, and dependence. Serious side effects may include bradycardia, suicidality, respiratory depression, hypotension, withdrawal symptoms, syncope, dependency and abuse, paradoxical CNS stimulation, and cardiovascular collapse. Common side effects may include confusion, ataxia, anterograde amnesia, irritability, tremor, dystonia, fatigue, sedation, and local injection site reactions.
For more information:
What is Anxiety Disorder?
What Is Anxiety Medication and How Does It Work?
5 Ways to Naturally Reduce Anxiety