Valium Side Effects

What is Valium?

Valium is a well-known drug generically called Diazepam, which belongs to a drug category known as benzodiazepines. Valium affects brain chemicals that are unbalanced and contribute to anxiety. It is prescribed to people suffering from excessive anxiety, alcohol withdrawals, and muscle spasms. Valium is sometimes given for other reasons. Consult a doctor for more information about Valium.

Potential for Abuse?

Because of its relaxing effects, Valium is often taken recreationally. It is comparable to alcohol and morphine in the effect it has on the body, and tests have shown lab rats will consume Valium if given the opportunity to do so, indicating a potential for addiction. Valium is more commonly abused than many opioid drugs such as codeine and hydrocodone. Overdose on Valium can result in coma and in rare cases death. It is especially dangerous when mixed with other substances such as alcohol.

Valium Side Effects

Serious Valium side effects:

• Some people have allergic reactions to Valium, which can cause swelling or difficult breathing.
• Depression
• Risk-taking behavior
• Confusion, erratic thoughts
• Hallucinations
• Muscle spasms
• Fever
• Jaundice
• Less frequent urination
  

Less serious Valium side effects:

• A strong desire to sleep
• Blurry sight
• Insomnia
• Muscle fatigue
• Slowed speech
• Nausea
• Rashes
• Decreased interest in sex
• Headache
  

This is not a complete list of Valium side effects. Consult your doctor for a full list.

Interesting Valium Tidbits

Here are some interesting facts about Valium

• Valium, along with other benzodiazepines, is one of the most frequently abused drugs in the world.  It and similar drugs result in more visits to the emergency room than any other drug class.
• Valium has shown success in treating vertigo, a feeling that the body is moving when it is not.
• It is sometimes used for cats and dogs as a sedative
• The state of California gives Valium to calm inmates on death row.
• Valium has a half-life of 20-100 hours and is metabolized by the liver.
  

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