Valium: Its Uses, After Effects and Management.

Psychiatric disorders such as Anxiety are the main culprit for mental peace. Their main characteristics are depression, worry, fear, nervousness. To help overcome such issues doctors often prescribed Valium, a drug under the name of brand diazepam. It provides a sense of relaxation and calming effect to the brain.

What is Valium?

Valium is a drug under the brand name diazepam. It’s used to treat anxiety related problems, muscle spasm, seizure etc . It affects the neurotransmitter in the brain. The main neurotransmitter is Gamma – aminobutyric acid (GABA). It’s a chemical messenger that transmits signals in the brain. It’s taken in the form of injection that is as intravenous form or in oral form or even as nasal spray. It has a sedative nature due to which it is a controlled substance in various countries.

Uses Of Valium

It’s main uses are for many health problems such as:

• Anxiety disorders
• Seizure attacks
• Muscle spasm
• Tremors
• Agitation
• For sedation purposes before surgeries.
• Its calming and sedative effects help in relaxing muscle aches.

Various Side-Effects of Valium:

Valium is generally effective but many a times it has some severe side effects such as:

• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Slow breathing
• Depression or even suicidal thoughts

Addiction risk:

There is risk of potential abuse as it is addictive. Patients may become dependent and may develop tolerance. They may have withdrawal issues. If taken more than required they may feel hallucination, nausea, dizziness, shallow breathing, confusion.

What are the precautions taken while using Valium?

As valium is a prescription based drug there are precautions that are important to remember

• Take it as prescribed by the doctors.
• Do not consume it along with alcohol.
• Avoid all the activities that may need alertness such as driving.

Conclusion

Valium is a very useful but short term used medication but it has its side effects and risk factors. It is often used for sedation. Over dosing may lead to long term amnesia (memory loss). One should always inform his/her health care provider if they face any issues while consuming Valium. Do not take an extra dose as it can lead to death.