Valium general information

Valium is used in the treatment of anxiety disorders and for short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety. It belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines.

It is also used to relieve the symptoms of acute alcohol withdrawal, to relax muscles, to relieve the uncontrolled muscle movements caused by cerebral palsy and paralysis of the lower body and limbs, to control involuntary movement of the hands (athetosis), to relax tight, aching muscles, and, along with other medications, to treat convulsive disorders such as epilepsy.

Valium can be habit-forming or addictive. You may experience withdrawal symptoms if you stop using Valium abruptly. Discontinue or change your dose only on your doctor's advice.

Valium dosage and administration

Take Valium exactly as prescribed. If you are taking Valium for epilepsy, make sure you take it every day at the same time.

Take it as soon as you remember if it is within an hour or so of the scheduled time. If you do not remember until later, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

Store away from heat, light, and moisture.

CHILDREN

Valium should not be given to children under 6 months of age.

The usual starting dose for children over 6 months is 1 to 2.5 milligrams 3 or 4 times a day. Your doctor may increase the dosage gradually if needed.

OLDER ADULTS

The usual dosage is 2 milligrams to 2.5 milligrams once or twice a day, which your doctor will increase as needed. Your doctor will limit the dosage to the smallest effective amount because older people are more apt to become oversedated or uncoordinated.

Valium side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Valium.

• More common side effects may include:
  Anxiety, drowsiness, fatigue, light-headedness, loss of muscle coordination
• Side effects due to a rapid decrease in dose or abrupt withdrawal from Valium:
  Abdominal and muscle cramps, convulsions, sweating, tremors, vomiting