Diazepam (Valium® and generic) is a benzodiazepine that is used as an anxiolytic. Here is basic information about this medication.
FDA-approved indications
1. Anxiety disorders
2. Short-term relief of symptoms of anxiety
3. Symptomatic relief of withdrawal symptoms of acute alcoholism
Dosage
A. Oral
1. Anxiety disorders and relief of symptoms of anxiety
2–10 mg orally, 2-4 times daily (depending on severity)
2. Symptomatic relief in acute alcohol withdrawal
10 mg orally, 3-4 times during the first 24 hours, reducing to 5 mg, 3 or 4 times daily as needed
Special Populations
Pediatric patients (6 months or older)
1 mg to 2.5 mg, 3 or 4 times daily initially; increase gradually as needed and tolerated
Geriatric/Debilitated
2 mg to 2.5 mg, 1 or 2 times daily initially; increase gradually as needed and tolerated
B. Injectable
1. Moderate anxiety disorders and symptoms of anxiety
2 mg to 5 mg, intramuscular or intravenous. Repeat in 3 to 4 hours, if necessary
2. Severe anxiety disorders and symptoms of anxiety
5 mg to 10 mg, intramuscular or intravenous. Repeat in 3 to 4 hours, if necessary
3. Symptomatic relief in acute alcohol withdrawal
10 mg, intramuscular or intravenous initially, then 5 mg to 10 mg in 3 to 4 hours, if necessary
Dosage forms and strengths
Tablets (Valium® and generic): 2 mg (scored), 5 mg (scored), 10 mg (scored)
Oral concentrate (Diazepam Intensol™ and generic): 5 mg/mL
Injection (generic): 5 mg/mL
(Supplied as 10 mg/2 mL Carpuject™, single-dose cartridge with Luer Lock )
Please refer to Prescribing Information (see link below) for complete discussion of dosage, administration, warnings and precautions, contraindications, etc.
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References
Diazepam (Valium®) Prescribing Information
Diazepam Oral Solution Prescribing Information
Diazepam Injection Prescribing Information
Copyright 2016, Rajnish Mago, MD. All rights reserved. May not be reproduced in any form without express written permission.
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