Understanding Diazepam (Valium)

Diazepam is a major benzodiazepine. It is often sold under the brand known as Valium! It is not meant for long-term use. This medication is also a controlled substance! Patients need to make a plan with their doctor on how to manage their symptoms without this medication. They also need to develop a plan for stopping their use of diazepam, as it also has withdrawal symptoms!

It is worth noting that diazepam is an extremely effective short-term medication for muscle spasms. It is also a great temporary anxiety medication! Emergency detox center patients take this medication to handle substance withdrawal symptoms. Doctors also prescribe this medication with other epilepsy treatments! It is a powerful seizure medication when used in this manner. Of course, patients need to understand how it works first!

How It Works

Diazepam is a powerful sedative. It works quite similarly to others in its medication class to treat anxiety and muscle conditions. This medication slows various functions in the patient's body! Slower functions reduce symptoms of panic. It also helps alleviate the brain activity that triggers muscle spasms!

This medication treats epilepsy as well. When this is the case, it regulates electrical activity in the brain. This stops electrical pulses from flooding the brain and triggering seizures! Diazepam also increases GABA, a calming chemical, in the brain. This stops the brain from acting too strong in the areas that are responsible for rational thought and memory. It also lessens the strength of a patient's emotions! Thus, patients feel sedated on this medication.

Continue reading to discover the significant uses for this medication next!