Licensed uses of diazepam

Diazepam is licensed for the short-term relief of acute severe anxiety, muscle spasm and seizures, and it is also used in specialist settings for alcohol withdrawal. It is sometimes given as a pre-medication before certain procedures to help people relax.

Risks of taking diazepam

The main risks of diazepam are dependence, an increased risk of falls in elderly people, and cognitive impairment such as memory or concentration problems. A paradoxical reaction, where the medicine causes agitation instead of calm, can occur but is rare.

What are the side effects of diazepam?

Common side effects include:

  • feeling drowsy, tired or less alert
  • feeling more anxious or low in mood
  • low blood pressure (hypotension)

Do not drive, cycle or use tools or machinery while you feel sleepy. Talk to a pharmacist or GP if a side effect bothers you or does not go away.

Serious side effects are rare. Call 111 if you notice slower or shallower breathing, or yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes (this can be harder to see on brown or black skin). Call 999 if someone is struggling to breathe or cannot be woken, or for signs of a severe allergic reaction such as a swollen tongue or throat. Dependence and withdrawal risks are covered in the section above.

Alternatives to diazepam for anxiety

For longer-term anxiety, SSRIs and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) are generally preferred, since diazepam is not intended as a long-term solution. Buspirone and beta-blockers may also be used depending on the situation.

Taking diazepam safely

Diazepam should be taken at the lowest effective dose for the briefest course needed to control symptoms. It is a controlled drug, so it should never be shared with anyone else.

Common questions about diazepam

How long can I take diazepam for?
Diazepam is normally taken for a few days up to a maximum of two to four weeks when used for anxiety. Courses for muscle spasm are similarly short, because the risk of dependence rises the longer it is taken.
Can I drive while taking diazepam?
Driving while impaired by diazepam is illegal, and the medicine label carries a warning about this. You should avoid driving until you know how the medicine affects you, since it can cause drowsiness and slow your reactions.
Can I drink alcohol while taking diazepam?
Alcohol should never be combined with diazepam, because together they can dangerously depress your breathing. This combination can be life-threatening, so it is best avoided completely.
What happens if I stop diazepam after taking it for a long time?
Stopping diazepam suddenly after long-term use can be dangerous and may cause seizures. A gradual taper under medical guidance is essential to stop safely.

Sources

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