Valium for Anxiety

Valium^®(diazepam) is a prescription medication approved to treat several conditions, including anxiety. Valium is part of a group of medications called benzodiazepines. These medicines have several effects on the body, such as relaxing the muscles, impairing short-term memory, and reducing anxiety.

Most people experience feelings of anxiety before an important event, such as a big exam, business presentation, or first date. Anxiety disorders, however, are illnesses that load people's lives with overwhelming anxiety and fear that are chronic and unremitting, and that can grow progressively worse.

Depending on the type of anxiety, a person can experience several possible anxiety symptoms, including:

Feeling shaky, jittery, or nervous
Feeling tense, fearful, or apprehensive
Avoiding certain places or activities because of fear
A pounding or racing heart or trouble catching your breath
Unexplained sweating or trembling
Fear of losing control, going crazy, or dying.

Valium is approved for treating anxiety disorders. Valium is not for "everyday anxiety" and is recommended only for short-term use. Other anxiety medications (such as SSRIs, a certain type of antidepressants) are more appropriate for long-term use.

(Click Valium Uses for a closer look at using Valium for anxiety treatment. This article also discusses how Valium works, as well as possible off-label uses.)