Valium Abuse and Addiction
Valium is a benzodiazepine with properties of being a sedative, hypnotic, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, amnestic and muscle relaxant drug. Valium is generally used to treat short term moderate to severe anxiety or insomnia. The drug has been shown to lead to the development of tolerance, physiological and psychological dependency when used for long periods.
Uses of Valium
Valium is useful for the management of anxiety disorders or for the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety. In cases of acute alcohol withdrawal, Valium may be useful in the relief of hallucinations, paranoia, acute agitation, tremors, or acute delirium tremens.
Valium is a useful for the relief of muscle spasms, spasticity caused by neurological disorders (e.g. cerebral palsy and paraplegia), stiff-man syndrome; and tetanus.
Valium is very useful in the treatment of status epilepticus and recalcitrant recurrent convulsive seizures.
Valium is a useful premedication for relief of anxiety and apprehension in patients who are to undergo surgical procedures. Intravenous administration takes effect within a few seconds to relieve the anxiety.
Side Effects of Valium Include:
CNS- lethargy, fatigue, difficulty walking, mental confusion, depression, difficulty with speech, headache, dizziness, tremor and sleepiness
GI: constipation, nausea, vomiting
GU: loss of bladder control, impotence, failure to maintain erection
Heart- slow heart rate, low blood pressure and shock.
HEENT: altered vision, double vision,
Skin: skin rash, urticaria.
Other: hiccups, mouth dryness, liver problems
