Valium (diazepam) belongs to thebenzodiazepineclass of medication.
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How Long Does It Take for Valium to Work?
Valium should work similarly whether it is taken for anxiety or agitation.
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However, individual responses to it can vary.
The medication can last up to several hours in the body before another dose is needed.
For most indications, Valium can be taken every six to eight hours.
The peak concentration of Valium in the bloodstream typically occurs within one hour after oral administration.
Valium is metabolized in the liver and expelled from the body through the urine.
Body Weight
Body weight can impact how Valium is distributed in the body.
Individuals with more body fat may experience a slower onset of action.
Therefore, Valium may take longer to work.
Age
Age can play a role in older individuals due to age-related changes in metabolism that may exist.
These changes may result in a slower onset of Valium.
Metabolism
An individual’s metabolism can impact how Valium is broken down in the body.
A faster metabolism may result in a quicker onset of action.
Those with slower metabolisms may take longer to feel the drugs effects.
Drug Tolerance
If Valium is taken excessively, drug tolerance may develop over time.
If Valium tolerance occurs, higher doses of the drug may be needed.
This may also influence how quickly the drug works.
What Is Valium?
Diazepam is the active ingredient found in Valium.
It belongs to a class of medications calledbenzodiazepines.
It should not be used in children under 6 months of age.
Adults 65 and older should take precautions while using it or avoid it altogether.
Brand-name Valium is available as tablets only.
Generic diazepam is available as a tablet, oral solution, injection, and rectal gel.
By attaching to GABA receptors, Valium produces a calming effect on the brain and reduces nervous system activity.
This calming effect helps lessen symptoms associated with anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, and muscle spasms.
When compared to other benzodiazepines, Valium works similarly.
Ensure Valium is only taken as instructed by a healthcare provider.
Valium carries a risk of abuse, misuse, and potentially addiction even if taken as prescribed.
This can lead to overdose and serious side effects, including coma and death.
Valium can also cause physical dependence and withdrawal reactions.
Clinical trials have not evaluated the effectiveness of Valium used longer than four months.
Alcohol should be avoided while taking Valium.
How Effective Is Valium?
Studies have compared the effectiveness of Valium with other benzodiazepines.
In general, they have similar effectiveness in managing anxiety and muscle spasms.
The results showed that diazepam was an effective alternative to alprazolam.
Overall, studies show that Valium is an effective treatment option for both anxiety and muscle soreness.
It is available as an oral tablet, suspension, intramuscular and intravenous injection, and rectal gel.
Valium generally begins working within 30 to 60 minutes after taking the medication by mouth.
For most indications, Valium can be taken every six to eight hours.
Valium carries boxed warnings regarding the potential for abuse, misuse, addiction, dependence, and withdrawal reactions.
Before starting treatment, talk to your healthcare provider about how to safely take it.
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