Diazepam

(generic for Valium)

This medication was originally introduced to treat anxiety.  It works well as a muscle relaxant.  It is similar to Soma but is more addictive.  One should not drink, or drive, or operate dangerous equipment within six hours of using this medicine.  It can be used with non-steroidals (like Lodine) and narcotic pain-killers (like Vicodin).

The following is the package insert.  It is complete and lengthy but not easily understood

Diazepam Tablets

A benzodiazepine medicine generally used to treat anxiety.

Precautions: DO NOT USE if you are allergic to this medicine or its relatives or if you are breastfeeding.

BEFORE USING THIS MEDICATION, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, or if you are taking, will be taking or stop taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine or if you have any other medical conditions.

Side Effects: Every medicine can cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following occurs: stomach upset; constipation; diarrhea; appetite change; vomiting; confusion; depression; nervousness; memory loss; drowsiness; fatigue; dizziness; crying; vivid dreams; headache; seizures; changes in heart rate; itching; rash; hair growth; yellowing of skin or eyes; visual or hearing disturbances; slurred speech; change in bladder function; change in sex drive; menstrual problems; dry mouth; fever; tremors/uncontrollable muscle movement; difficult breathing; swelling; excessive perspiration; joint pain; weight gain or loss; fainting.

Guidelines for Use: USE EXACTLY AS PRESCRIBED.

• May be taken with food or water if stomach upset occurs.
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to "catch up", unless advised by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
• This medication can be addictive if used in large doses or for a long time. Discuss overuse with your doctor or pharmacist.
• May cause drowsiness. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring mental alertness, coordination and dexterity.
• Avoid alcohol and other medication that cause drowsiness while taking this medication (e.g., sleeping pills, antihistamines).
• If excitement, stimulation or acute rage, tell your doctor.
• Patients on long-term or high dosage therapy may have withdrawal symptoms if therapy is suddenly stopped. Do not stop therapy abruptly or change dosage without asking your pharmacist or doctor.
• Carry identification if this medicine is used for seizures.

This information is advisory only; it does not contain all information about this medicine. If you have any questions about your medicine, ask your doctor, pharmacist or healthcare provider.

Copyright 1993 by Facts & Comparisons, used by permission of Southwood Pharmaceuticals

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