Valium Uses

Valium can be used for the treatment of anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, muscle spasms, or seizures. Valium and other benzodiazepine medications have several effects on the body, including relaxing muscles, causing sleepiness, and reducing anxiety. A few off-label Valium uses include the treatment of agitation, insomnia, and benzodiazepine withdrawal (which can occur when a person stops taking a benzodiazepine medication too quickly).

 

What Is Valium Used For?

Valium® (diazepam) is a prescription medication that is used to treat the following conditions:
 
Valium and Alcohol Withdrawal
Stopping alcohol "cold turkey" is not always a good idea. In fact, it can be very dangerous. People who drink heavily or frequently may experience alcohol withdrawal symptoms if they stop drinking alcohol too quickly. Mild alcohol withdrawal symptoms can include slight shakiness (the "shakes"), alcohol cravings, nervousness, depression, or clammy skin. More severe symptoms may include:
 
  • Seizures
  • Delirium tremens ("DTs"), a group of symptoms including confusion, agitation, and hallucinations
  • Severe nausea and vomiting
  • A very rapid heart rate (tachycardia).
     
Alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening. It should always be done under a healthcare provider's supervision, and hospitalization is often necessary. Valium can help with agitation, shakiness, and delirium tremens associated with alcohol withdrawal.
(Valium Uses Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;