Diazepam Description

Generic Name : DIAZEPAM

Pronunciation : (dye az' e pam)

Trade Name(s) : Anxol, Calmod, Calmpose, Camrelease-TR, Centopam, Dizep, Dizep-P, ElcionCR, Lori, Paxum, Peacin, Placidox-10, Placidox-2, Placidox-5, Tenil, Trankvil, Valium

Why it is prescribed: Diazepam is used to relieve anxiety, including anxiety before surgery. It also is used to treat muscle spasms and to control agitation caused by alcohol withdrawal as well as epileptic seizures.

When it is to be taken: Diazepam is taken one to four times a day. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully. Do not take diazepam for anxiety for more than four months without consulting your doctor.

How it should be taken: Diazepam comes in the form of tablets, extended-release or long-acting capsules, and oral liquid. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose. You may obtain a specially marked measuring spoon to be sure of an accurate dose of the liquid. Dilute the concentrate in water, Juice, soft drink or pudding just before taking it.

Special Instruction :
1. If you take diazepam to control seizures and have an increase in their frequency or severity, contact your doctor. Your dose may need to be adjusted.
2. Diazepam can decrease alertness and coordination. Do not drive a car or operate dangerous machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
3. As this drug is habit-forming, do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than as directed.
4. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor, especially if you have been taking it for a long time. Stopping the drug abruptly can worsen your condition and cause withdrawal symptoms.
5. Your doctor probably will want to decrease your dose gradually. Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your dose may need to be adjusted occasionally, and you may have blood tests periodically.
6. If you forget to take a dose, do not take a missed dose when you remember it. Omit it completely; then take the next dose at the regularly scheduled time.

Side Effects :
1. Drowsiness, muscle incoordination, fatigue, confusion, faintness, dizziness, weakness. If these effects persist for more than a few days. contact your doctor.
2. Talkativeness, restlessness, excitement, trembling, increased muscle spasms, sleeping problems, nightmares. Stop taking the drug and contact your doctor immediately.

Other Precautions :
1. Pregnant or breast-feeding women should inform their doctors. If you become pregnant while taking diazepam, contact your doctor immediately.
2. Before you take this drug, tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking, including cimetidine, digoxin, disulfiram, levodopa, seizure medication, sleeping pills, prescription pain medication, medication for depression, tranquilizers, sedatives, antihistamines. and medication for allergies and colds.
3. Do not drink alcoholic beverages while taking diazepam. Alcohol adds to the drowsiness and dizziness caused by this drug.
4. Do not smoke while taking diazepam. Smoking can decrease its effectiveness. 5.If you have liver or kidney disease, tell your doctor before you take this drug.

Storage Conditions : Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature, away from light and excess heat.