Valium Side Effects

The prescription pill Valium is a drug in the central nervous system depressant category that acts as a sedative hypnotic, slowing brain function. It produces a calming or drowsy effect that helps in treating people with anxiety or sleep disorders. Benzodiazepines, such as Valium, can be prescribed to treat anxiety, acute stress reactions and panic attacks. In higher doses, it can even be used as general anesthetics. Despite the beneficial effects of taking Valium, it can have the potential of abuse and should only be taken as prescribed.

Initial Effects of Valium

Initially, the user will experience feelings of sleepiness and lack of coordination. As the body loses the effect of the drug, these feelings begin to disappear. If long-term use begins to occur, then tolerance will take its toll, requiring a person to take larger doses for the same initial effects. A user cannot generally anticipate the side effects of taking Valium, but if they develop or intensify use, it’s a good indication to notify a doctor. (See Valium Side Effects).

Effects of Valium to the Central Nervous System

The side effects of Valium can be obvious. The effects to the central nervous system can range from:

• Confusion
• Dysarthria
• Headache
• Slurred speech
• Tremor
• Vertigo
• Drowsiness
• Lethargy
• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness

Other effects may be:

• Bladder or bowel control problems
• Double vision
• Salivation changes
• Difficulty passing urine
• Blurred vision

As one begins taking this medication, the psychiatric effects may begin to take toll. These effects include:

• Stimulation
• Restlessness
• Acute hyperexcited states
• Anxiety
• Agitation
• Aggressiveness
• Irritability
• Rage
• Hallucinations
• Psychoses
• Delusions
• Increased muscle spasticity
• Insomnia
• Sleep disturbances
• Nightmares

Inappropriate behavior and other adverse behavioral effects have been reported when using benzodiazepines. Should these occur, use of the drug should be discontinued. They are more likely to occur in children and in the elderly.

Since Valium impairs mental judgment, it is recommended that individuals not drive vehicles or operate any machinery while taking the drug. The side effects of Valium are augmented by consumption of alcohol or other central nervous depressants. In fact, consuming Valium with alcohol can result in a potentially fatal overdose.

Some individuals may have a paradoxical reaction to Valium and have worsening of their anxiety and suicidal thoughts. Initial monitoring of all patients during the start of therapy is recommended.

Serious Effects of Valium

Some side effects with Valium, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. These include but are not limited to:

• Depression (or worsening of existing depression)
• Low blood pressure (hypo tension)
• Yellow eyes or skin (jaundice)
• Suicidal thoughts
• Difficulty breathing
• Anxiety, excitation or agitation
• Hostility, aggression or rage
• Insomnia
• Hallucinations
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
  • Unexplained rash
  • Hives
  • Itching
  • Unexplained swelling

In individuals who take Valium for prolonged periods, frequent liver function tests should be done and the dose of Valium adjusted if there is liver impairment. The possibility of liver damage should always be considered, especially in individuals using Valium and other over the counter analgesics and/or alcohol.

Valium Addiction Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with a Valium addiction and would like information on Valium addiction help, we can help. Please call our toll free number at (888) 371-5703. We are available 24 hours a day to answer your questions on Valium treatment and addiction. Watch this Valium addiction video