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Diazepam - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Diazepam

Generic Name : Diazepam
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Diazepam are provided here.

Pronunciation : dye az' e pam

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Diazepam, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


ICD Code : Y47.5 Therapeutic Classification : Anxiolytics, Sedatives And Hypnotics

Trade Names/Brand Names of Diazepam

India :

International :


Valium, Valrelease

Why is Diazepam Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a benzodiazepine, prescribed for anxiety. It is also used for muscle spasms and seizures. It works by acting on receptors in the brain called GABA receptors.

When should Diazepam not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with increased eye pressure and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Diazepam?

Adult- PO/IV/IM- The recommended dose range is 2 to 20 mg/day in divided doses.

How should Diazepam be taken?

It comes as a tablet and capsule to take by mouth, with or without food.
It also comes as a solution for injection to be administered by a healthcare provider into the vein or muscle.

What are the warnings and precautions for Diazepam?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with increased eye pressure, seizures, lung, heart or liver disease, any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause dizziness, drowsiness or lightheadedness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication. The skilled tasks are to be carried out with caution even on the following day as there may be a hangover or residual effect particularly with long-acting benzodiazepines.

• Avoid alcohol consumption and smoking while taking this medication.

• Avoid excess dosage and long-term use of this medication.

What are the side effects of Diazepam?

Most Common - Drowsiness, fatigue and incoordination.
Central Nervous System - Confusion, depression, slurred speech, headache, fainting, tremor and unsteadiness.
Gastrointestinal - Constipation and nausea.
Genitourinary - Urinary incontinence, changes in sexual drive and urinary retention.
Heart - Slow heart rate and low blood pressure.
Eye and ENT - Blurred vision, double vision and night blindness.
Skin - Hives and skin rash.
Miscellaneous - Hiccups, changes in salivation and jaundice.

What are the other precautions for Diazepam?

Monitor liver function and complete blood cell counts regularly while taking this medication.

What are the storage conditions for Diazepam?

Store it at room temperature (20 to 25°C).

Schedule : H
Prescription drugs - Drugs to be sold only under the prescription of a Registered Medical Practitioner.

Diazepam: Learn More About The Anxiety Reducing Drug

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