Diazepam: uses, precautions and side effects of this drug

This drug of the benzodiazepine group is used to relax the nervous system.

Of all the benzodiazepines on the pharmacological market, diazepam is the most famous, diazepam is the one that has achieved the most fame since it was first synthesized in the 1950s by the Polish chemist Leo Henryk Sternbach.

In this article we will discuss the uses of this drug in the treatment of various physical and psychological conditions, as well as the side effects and precautions to be taken by those who take it.

What is diazepam?

Diazepam, popularly known as Valiumis a drug of the benzodiazepine group.

Broadly speaking, the benzodiazepines are psychotropic drugs, i.e. their focus of action is the central nervous system.. Its sedative, anxiolytic and Muscle relaxant properties, among many others, are used to treat anxiety states, sleep disturbances, withdrawal problems or muscular disorders.

However, in the case of diazepam its properties are much more specific. These are:

• Anxiolytic propertiesIt decreases the symptoms of anxiety.
• Myorelaxant: it reduces the tonicity, tension or contraction of muscles.
• AnticonvulsantCombats, prevents and avoids convulsions or epileptic seizures.
• SedativeTranquilizing and somniferous effects.

Diazepam has established itself as one of the benzodiazepine drugs. one of the most widely used benzodiazepines due to its high effectiveness, both as an anxiolytic and as a sedative.It is one of the most prescribed and administered drugs in this category, both as an anxiolytic and in the treatment of muscle spasms.

How does it work?

Like other benzodiazepines, diazepam is a central nervous system depressant. is a central nervous system depressant. Its focus of action is the neurons found in these structures on which it exerts a reducing effect on nerve conduction, and can produce sedative effects ranging from sedative effects to coma, depending on the amount administered.

Its main mechanism of action lies in favoring and increasing the inhibitory potential of the neurotransmitter. increase the inhibitory potential of the neurotransmitter known as gamma aminobutyric acid, or GABAacting on the limbic system, the thalamus and the hypothalamus.

One of its main advantages is that it does not affect or block the peripheral autonomic nervous system, so it does not produce any extrapyramidal side effects.

In which cases is it administered?

Given its multiple actions, diazepam has been established as the drug of choice for a large number of conditions and disorders, both psychological and physical. both psychological and physical.

Since it is mainly known for its anxiolytic effects, its administration contexts are those related to the treatment of anxiety, psychosomatic conditions, panic attacks or sleep problems such as insomnia.

As for the rest of cases or conditions, diazepam is indicated in cases of:

• Vertigo.
• Convulsions and muscular spasms.
• Sedation prior to surgery..
• Delirium tremens.
• Dyspnea or breathing problems.
• Paraneoplastic syndrome.

Finally, thanks to its properties as a muscle relaxantIt is highly recommended in cases of spasticity in which any type of condition such as paraplegia or paralysis causes a permanent contraction of some muscle groups.

What is its dosage?

The most commonly used form of administration of this drug is orally in the form of tablets, capsules or a concentrated liquid solution of prolonged release. It may also be administered intravenously In certain cases, it may also be administered intravenously, always by a health professional.It may also be administered intravenously by a healthcare professional.

Although the recommended dose of diazepam is usually between 5 and 10 milligrams daily, it is necessary to follow the indications of the medical specialist. He or she will agree on the necessary dosage according to the individual response of each patient.

However, the maximum dose of diazepam does not exceed 20 milligrams a day, since the patient runs the risk of suffering an overdose, with all the detrimental effects that this can cause.with all the detrimental effects that this entails.

Due to its own characteristics, increasing the dose on its own, or administering diazepam for longer than required may cause tolerance or decrease of its effects and, therefore, dependence on this drug, dependence to this drug.

Therefore, as mentioned above, the patient should follow firmly and precisely all the indications given by the healthcare professional, who should be contacted in case of any doubt regarding the drug or any aspect of the treatment.

Side effects

The most common side effects of diazepam include the following:

• Fatigue.
• Drowsiness.
• Dizziness.
• Feeling of weakness.
• Gastric problems such as stomach pain or diarrhea.

On the other hand, there are a series of undesired effects that are rather less common but in which it will be necessary to contact the relevant professional immediately:

• Constipation.
• Appetite alterations..
• Problems urinating.
• Alterations in vision.
• Alterations in libido.
• Fever.
• Convulsive crises.
• Breathing problems.
• Difficulty in swallowing.
• Tremors.
• Motor disturbances.
• Rash.
• Abnormal palpitations.

Finally, there have been cases of paradoxical adverse reactions such as overexcitement, irritation and anger; mainly when diazepam is administered to children and elderly people.

What precautions or contraindications are there?

As with all other benzodiazepines, patients should take into account a series of precautions when taking a drug such as diazepam.

First of all, the patient has the obligation to inform his doctor in the case of consuming any other type of medication or drug, as well as of his alcoholic habits; in order to avoid any type of undesired interaction.

After a long period of treatment the patient should not stop taking diazepam suddenly.Once the treatment is finished, it should be withdrawn gradually. Otherwise they may suffer a risk of rebound effect characterized by extreme nervousness and disturbance. In addition, depression and sleep problems may also appear after abrupt withdrawal. In any case, the doctor's instructions must be followed.

In cases where the patient is pregnant, the administration of diazepam in the first and third trimester is not recommended. As well as during the lactation period, since it can be transferred to breast milk, causing effects such as sedation, appetite alterations and weight loss in the infant.

Finally, although these effects are subject to the amount of diazepam administered and to the sensitivity of each patient, it is necessary to take precautions when driving any type of vehicle. when driving any type of vehicle or machinery that requires full attention or weight loss. that requires the full attention or concentration of the person. The sedative and somniferous effects of diazepam make it practically incompatible with any of these activities or practices.