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Valium may be prescribed for the treatment of anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, and other conditions. This eMedTV article gives a general overview of the prescription drug, noting in particular its side effects, dosing guidelines, and available strengths.
Some of the most common Valium side effects include fatigue, drowsiness, or coordination problems. This eMedTV article explains that side effects of Valium are usually minor, but can sometimes be serious -- and explains what to do.
This eMedTV article explains that if you're taking Valium and insomnia occurs, you should let your doctor know. Insomnia (which can be characterized by difficulty falling asleep and having non-refreshing sleep) is not a normal side effect of Valium.
Valium uses can include the treatment of muscle spasms, alcohol withdrawal, or anxiety. This eMedTV page lists other Valium uses, and also describes how Valium can sometimes be used for off-label purposes (such as for treating agitation or insomnia).
The recommended Valium dosage for most people with anxiety is 2 mg to 10 mg two to four times daily. This eMedTV resource also discusses Valium dosing guidelines for the treatment of alcohol withdrawal, muscle spasms, and seizures.
Valium drug interactions can potentially occur if the drug is taken with alcohol or barbiturates. This eMedTV page lists other drugs that can potentially interact with Valium and describes how Valium interactions can raise the risk of side effects.
Some people who take Valium may become psychologically or physically dependent on the drug. This eMedTV page lists other Valium warnings and precautions, including potential drug interactions and the safety of taking Valium while nursing or pregnant.
As this eMedTV segment explains, the FDA considers Valium a pregnancy Category D drug, meaning that it has shown clear evidence of risk to the fetus in previous studies. This page also discusses what to do if you're on Valium and pregnancy occurs.
During treatment with Valium, let your doctor know if you're breastfeeding or thinking of breastfeeding. This eMedTV page takes an in-depth look at Valium and breastfeeding, noting some specific side effects the drug can cause in breastfed infants.
Confusion, drowsiness, and slow reflexes are among the possible symptoms of an overdose on Valium. This eMedTV page lists other Valium overdose symptoms, as well as treatment options that may be used to treat an overdose (like fluids through an IV).
Symptoms of Valium withdrawal can include anxiety, sweating, and a fever. This eMedTV page explains why you should talk with your doctor before stopping Valium, and also describes what steps your doctor may take to help limit withdrawals from Valium.
As this eMedTV segment explains, you may be experiencing Valium addiction if you begin taking increasing amounts of the drug or feel you can't stop taking it. This page covers symptoms of Valium addiction (such as a fever) and what to do if it occurs.
You may be more sensitive to the effects of alcohol if you are also taking Valium. This eMedTV page takes a detailed look at alcohol and Valium, explaining why it is generally recommended that you not drink alcohol during treatment with the medicine.
This eMedTV Web page provides an overview of generic Valium, which comes in tablet, oral liquid, and injectable forms and is manufactured by several companies (including Roxane Laboratories and Watson Pharmaceuticals).
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