Valium is a benzodiazepine that is used as a muscle relaxant, anticonvulsant, hypnotic, anxiolytic and sedative. Available, since 1963, today it is sold under the brand name Diazepam. It is a fairly, commonly abused prescription medication.

Basics

Valium’s primary use is to treat individuals who suffer from anxiety. It may also be prescribed for insomnia. It is physically addicting. Some people may also become psychologically addicted to it because it helps them relax and deal with their anxiety and stress or helps them sleep. The latter might be especially beneficial for those who suffer from insomnia.

Valium is mostly taken orally. However, it can be administered through an IV in a hospital setting. When people first begin taking valium, they are often prescribed about 5 mg a day. Individuals may be eventually prescribed as much as 10-15 mg a day.

Addiction

If Valium is taken for long periods of time, individuals can build up a tolerance to the drug. They may also eventually develop a psychological and physiological addiction or dependency to it. A tolerance to a substance requires that the user take increasing amounts in order for them to feel its effects. An addiction can 'wreak havoc' not only on a person’s body but also their life.

Legality

It is illegal to take valium without a prescription or to distribute it without the proper medical credentials. It is classified as a schedule 4 drug in the United States. There are a number of different side effects that a person who takes valium may experience. They may suffer from lethargy, vertigo, the inability to think clearly, experience problems with their gait, drowsiness and confusion.

Mixing

It is dangerous to mix valium with any medications which are classified as central nervous depressents. One mixture which is especially dangerous is alcohol and valium as this could be lethal. With long-term use, valium can cause liver problems. This is especially true for individuals who have consumed a lot of alcohol throughout their life or analgeics. It is possible to over dose on valium as well. Evidence that a person may be experiencing valium intoxificaton include signs of confusion, slowed reflexes and extreme tiredness. An individual can potentially slip into a coma and die.

Questions and Answers

a. It is really possible to die from a valium overdose? Yes, it is possible for a person to overdose on valium. The likelihood and the danger increases if a person has mixed valium with another type of depressant.

b. Do doctors even prescribe valium anymore? I thought they only prescribed that when my grandmother was young: No, doctors still prescribe valium, though it is true that newer anti-anxiety meds such as Xanax have gained more favor.

c. Is it ok to mix valium and alcohol? No, this is extremely risky and dangerous. Because both of these are central nervous system depressants you run the risk of respiratory depression and even death if you drink too much or take too much valium.