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What is Diazepam?

Diazepam belongs to genre of drugs that are known as sedatives or sleep medications which is normally used to treat insomnia. It is a class of drug called benzodiazepines. It works by getting quickly absorbed; produces a brief initial phase of strong action followed by prolonged wilder effect due to a two phase plasma concentration decay cure. It is preferred in acute panic states and anxiety associated organic disease.
The following are the indications when this particular drug can be suggested are when somebody is suffering from anxiety, tension, muscle spasm, psychosomatic and behavior disorders, dysmenorrhoea, cerebral palsy, upper motor neuron spasticity. This sedative can also be used for surgical procedures, labour, tetanus, and eclampsia.
There can be acute narrow angle glaucoma. It is hypersensitive to benzodiazepines.

Precautions to be taken while taking Diazepam

Special precautions should be taken in case of renal or hepatic impairment. One should always perform blood count and liver function tests in prolong treatment. It should not be diluted or injected rapidly.
While under the medication of diazepam one should be cautious while driving or operating machinery. The reason for this is because Diazepam causes drowsiness and dizziness.
Diazepam should not be taken more than the prescribed amount as it is very much habit forming. One becomes physically and psychologically dependent on this drug.
Alcohol should be avoided at all circumstances while in taking diazepam as it along with this drug will increase drowsiness and dizziness.

Diazepam Dosage

The dosage of Diazepam is like 5 -30 mg daily in divided number of doses. It should be exactly taken as directed by the physician. The drug should be taken with a glass full of water in case of oral dose. The liquid form of this drug should be measured with a dose measuring spoon or cup to ensure the correct dosage. In case of paediatrics it is safe to take this drug whereas in pregnancy it is contra-indicated. However, in lactation case it is not established to be safe and elderly people are advised to go reduced doses.
Incase of Diastat rectal gel the application of the same is as follows:
The protective cover from the medication syringe is removed and the rectal tip is lubricated with lubricating jelly.
The rectum of the patient is exposed so that the gel can applied in a smoother way.
The syringe tip is gently inserted into the rectum and the rim is snugged against the rectal opening. The plunger is gently pushed in and while removing it is slowly removed. After removing the plunger the buttocks are hold together to prevent leakage.
Diazepam should not be taken more often or in a larger dose than is prescribed.
Diazepam should be stored at room temperature away from heat and moisture.

If overdose:

If over dose happens the one starts building the symptoms of sleepiness, confusion, dizziness, slow heart beat, feels difficult to talk, breathe and walk. The appearance of the patient seems being drunk.
Hence immediate and emergency medical attention is required.

If a dose is missed:

If the dose is missed then it should be immediately taken when remembered but if it is time for the next dose then one should skip the missed dose and should not take double dose in any circumstances. Double dose of Diazepam is very dangerous.

Side effects of Diazepam

Following are the side effects that can occur while having diazepam:
Drug Dependence & abuse
G.I disturbances
Drowsiness
Impaired alertness
Sedation
Vertigo
Increased Appetite
Weight gain
Sores in the mouth or throat
Yellowing of the skin
Hallucinations or severe confusion
Changes in vision
When any of the above said side effects are experienced by the patient then he/she should immediately stop taking diazepam and immediately consult his/her physician.

Withdrawal Symptoms of Diazepam

Below listed are some of the common withdrawal symptoms of Diazepam:

Anxiety
Depression
Tinnitus