Diazepam (Valium) is a benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety, muscle spasms, and seizures. It is also commonly used to treat insomnia, alcohol withdrawal, and panic disorders. Diazepam has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for medical use since 1963 and is available in both oral and injectable forms.
Diazepam works by enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter in the brain. GABA is responsible for reducing the activity of nerve cells, which can help reduce anxiety and other symptoms of mental disorders. It also has anticonvulsant properties, which can help control seizures.
Diazepam is generally well-tolerated and has few side effects. Common side effects include drowsiness, headache, confusion, dizziness, and muscle weakness. It can also cause more serious side effects such as difficulty breathing, nausea, and blurred vision. It is important to talk to a doctor before taking diazepam, as it can be habit-forming and can interact with other medications.
Diazepam is a useful medication for the treatment of anxiety, insomnia, and seizures, but it is important to use it with caution. It is best to take it as prescribed by a doctor and to monitor for any potential side effects.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Washington, DC: Author.
FDA. (2020). Diazepam. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/019427s027s028lbl.pdf
U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2020). Diazepam. Retrieved from https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Diazepam#section=Top