diazepam (Valium)


diazepam (Valium)

Class:  Anticonvulsant and sedative

 

Decription: Diazepam is a benzodiazepine commonly used as an anticonvulsant, hypnotic, and sedative.

 

Mechanism of Action:   Benzodiazepines bind to Type A gamma-aminobutyric acid, or "GABA" receptors is the brain. While benzodiazepines have no direct effect on the receptors, they do potentiate the effects of GABA in the brain.  GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter of the CNS.  Increased levels of GABA cause sedation.  

 

Common Uses:  Diazepam is most commonly used as an anticonvulsant prehospital but is also used in many other areas.  It is an effective relaxant of skeletal muscles making it useful in orthopedic injuries.  It is also used in the management of anxiety, stress, and tremors associated with alcohol withdrawl.

 

Onset:  1-5 min. (IV),   15-30 min. (IM)

Peak Effects:  15 Min. (IV),   30-45 min. (IM)

Duration:  15-60 min.

Half Life:  20-50 hrs.

 

         Indications      

 

 

 

 

Contraindications:  Hypersensitivity

 

Precautions 

 

Dosage

 

 

IV injections are to be administered by slow push.  No faster than 1 mL / min.

IM injection absorption rates vary.

In rare cases where afore mentioned methods are not available diazepam can be given rectally with a similar onset.

 

Interactions 

 

 

 

Side Effects