What is Valium?

Valium is an anti-anxiety medication that is part of the group of drugs known as benzodiazepines.  Also known as diazepam, Valium can be used to treat muscle spasms, alcohol withdrawal symptoms and anxiety but it does carry a potential for abuse and can lead to addiction.  Valium works to balance the chemicals in the brain that cause anxiety when they become unbalanced.

Although Valium is moderately safe when used as prescribed, the drug can cause allergic reactions in some patients.  You should not use Valium if you are allergic to diazepam or to similar medications such as Xanax, Restoril, or Klonopin.  People who have severe breathing problems such as asthma or sleep apnea also should not take Valium.  The medication is not safe for use when pregnant as it could harm the unborn baby.

Certain conditions should be discussed with a doctor prior to taking Valium.  History of breathing problems, kidney disease, heart problems, seizures or drug or alcohol addiction could all cause adverse effects when taking Valium.  Additionally, those who suffer from mental health problems such as depression should also discuss these problems with their doctor prior to taking Valium to ensure that the drug is safe and will not cause any adverse reactions.

It’s important not to drink alcohol when taking Valium as this can increase the effects of the drug and may lead to some dangerous side effects.  Because Valium slows the body, when paired with alcohol the effects can be too much for the individual to deal with and may lead to overdose or potentially death.  Never take more Valium than the doctor prescribed, do not take your dose sooner than you are supposed to and do not take Valium without a prescription as this can lead to potentially fatal overdose.

Is Valium Habit Forming?

Valium can be habit forming if it is taken for a prolonged period of time, taken recreationally or if more of the drug is taken than is prescribed.  Talk with your doctor about any potential risk factors that may be associated with you if you are prescribed Valium and are unsure about the potential for the drug to cause physical dependence.  If you have been prescribed Valium, be sure to keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to is because there is a chance of the drug being stolen due mostly to the potential that this drug has for abuse.