How Diazepam works

Diazepam is a benzodiazepine. It works by increasing the action of GABA, a chemical messenger which suppresses the abnormal and excessive activity of the nerve cells in the brain.

Side Effects

Sleepiness, Memory impairment, Uncoordinated body movements, Dizziness, Headache, Dryness in mouth, Fatigue, Depression, Irritability, Slurred speech, Constipation

Usage

Diazepam is used in the treatment of short term anxiety, epilepsy, muscle spasms and alcohol withdrawal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is Diazepam an opioid/ painkiller/ barbiturate/ sedative/ muscle relaxant?

Diazepam belongs to a class of medication called as benzodiazepine. It produces sedation and also causes muscle relaxation. It is not a barbiturate, and does not relieve pain

Q. Is Diazepam a sleeping pill?

Diazepam is used as sedative drug which induces sleep

Q. Is Diazepam a narcotic/controlled drug?

Diazepam is considered as a narcotic drug, as it has low, but definite potential to cause addiction, resulting in abuse of the drug; hence, its sale is controlled. It is available only according to the prescription of a doctor

Q. How long can I take Diazepam for?

It is advisable to take this drug only till prescribed by the doctor

Q. Can I take Diazepam for back pain/toothache/anxiety/hangover?

Diazepam is used in the treatment of short-term relief (2-4 weeks) of severe anxiety. It is not a pain-relieving medication, and cannot be used to relieve pain. It does not relieve hangover

Q. Does Diazepam help with opioid withdrawal?

Diazepam is used to induce sleep, control fits and other symptoms of withdrawal of opioids as well as other depressant drugs

Q. Does Diazepam cause weight gain/drowsiness/thins blood?

Drowsiness is the most common side effect of Diazepam. There is no evidence that it causes weight gain, or thinning of blood

Q. Does Diazepam show on blood test?

Yes, Diazepam can be detected in blood, as well as urine, even when it is taken at prescribed doses

Q. Does Diazepam make you high?

Diazepam is a benzodiazepine, which calms down the brain to relieve symptoms of brain hyperactivity. This effect may be perceived by some as pleasant, or ‘getting high'. Diazepam is considered as a narcotic drug, as it has low, but definite potential to cause addiction, resulting in abuse of the drug; hence, its sale is controlled. It is available only according to the prescription of a doctor.