Diazepam, first marketed as Valium, is a medicine of the benzodiazepine family that acts as an anxiolytic.[12] It is commonly used to treat a range of conditions, including anxiety, seizures, alcohol withdrawal syndrome, muscle spasms, insomnia, and restless legs syndrome.[12] It may also be used to cause memory loss during certain medical procedures.[13][14] It can be taken orally (by mouth), as a suppository inserted into the rectum, intramuscularly (injected into muscle), intravenously (injection into a vein) or used as a nasal spray.[6][14] When injected intravenously, effects begin in one to five minutes and last up to an hour.[14] Orally, effects begin after 15 to 60 minutes.[15]
Common side effects include sleepiness and trouble with coordination.[10][14] Serious side effects are rare.[12] They include increased risk of suicide, decreased breathing, and an increased risk of seizures if used too frequently in those with epilepsy.[12][14][16] Occasionally, excitement or agitation may occur.[17][18] Long-term use can result in tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms on dose reduction.[12] Abrupt stopping after long-term use can be potentially dangerous.[12] After stopping, cognitive problems may persist for six months or longer.[17] It is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.[14] Its mechanism of action works by increasing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).[17]
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